Numbers 6:22-27

The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the Israelites: You shall say to them,

The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you;
the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.

So they shall put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.

I could not begin to tell you how many times I've spoken or heard these words of blessing in my lifetime. I've known them my whole life. They blessed me on my baptism, my confirmation, my high school graduation, and my ordination. I've spoken them over joy filled wedding celebrations and I've shouted them in celebration at bible camp worship. I've prayed them with grieving family members holding vigil with a dying loved one, then said them again at the funeral, and once more at the graveside.  I have lifted my hands to bless the people at the close of countless worship services and used these ancient words. To bless and to be blessed is one of the most sacred acts I have experienced.

Today, be reminded that it is God who blesses. It is God who keeps you, shines on you, and is gracious to you beyond measure. It is God who sees you, knows you, loves you, and gives you peace. When all else is out of our control, God offers a blessing, and it is enough for today.

– Pastor Sara

Prayer

Gracious God, thank you today for ancient words that bring peace and assurance for today. Amen.