Wis 2:1a, 12-22 Ps 34:17-18, 19-20, 21 and 23 Jn 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections Praying Lent

"When the just cry out, the Lord hears them, and from all their distress he rescues them." –Psalm 34:17

Have you ever watched a baby sleep? There’s something about this peaceful image that’s simply captivating. Your heart fills up with an overwhelming love that makes you want to laugh and cry at the same time because this child is just too perfect and beautiful. At any sign of distress, you’re there in a heartbeat to soothe and comfort the tears. You would do anything and everything to make sure this baby was protected and happy and cherished. Have you ever thought about how God watches over you the same way, but with an even more intense love?

Life can bring all sorts of crosses to bear—pain and heartache, loneliness and shame, loss and isolation. Trials can be the heaviest and hardest low points to bear and get through, and sometimes it feels impossible for our hearts to handle it alone. The beautiful thing, though, is that we don’t have to be able to do it on our own. Those times when an unexpected trial finds its way into our lives, Jesus is there to endure the unhappy news with us. He is close and waiting to comfort and strengthen our wounded hearts. We must seek Christ when it’s the most difficult to do so, because that’s when he is the closest.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” -Psalm 34:18

Lord, please be near me today. Make your presence known in my life, especially in trying times when you seem most distant. Help me trust and believe that you are near, filling my heart up with your peace and love. Amen.