Proximity

Sunday 25 April 2021

Proximity

When I walk in the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no harm, for you are with me ; your staff and your staff reassure me. Psalm 23: 4

It is the Lord who assisted me and who strengthened me... And I was delivered from the mouth of the lion. 2 Timothy 4:17

When leaving his disciples, the Lord Jesus left them this promise: I am with you every day (Matthew 28:20). That he is with us is certain, but what do we do with that certainty in our lives ? When the circumstances are right, it is easy to enjoy the presence of Jesus. We like to repeat with David that the Lord is our Shepherd, our support and our guide. But when the test comes, would that presence be less real ?

David had many difficulties in his life and it is from experience that he can speak of the support given to him by the presence of God in "the valley of the shadow of death" ; He evokes the faithful care of the good shepherd who walks with him : his staff directs him, his staff protects him from dangers, a furnished table is there to feed him. Aware of God's care, he can look to the future with confidence (v. 6).

The apostle Paul never doubted Jesus' presence by his side. On several occasions he was even encouraged by a particular revelation. But now the situation escalates to the point where he finds himself isolated in a prison. The abandonment of the brothers in Asia is a hard blow, the absence of a few collaborators is another, even if it is motivated by service to the Lord. Left alone to face Caesar's tribunal, what is left for him ? It is then that the Lord draws near again and Paul, encouraged, can say : The Lord has stood by me and strengthened me.

Let us be sure that it will be the same for each of us. So let's say with David :

Why should I fear in the wrong day ? (Psalm 49: 5)

On a bad day, he will put me under cover in his lodge (Psalm 27: 5).

Source (Pleasing the Lord)