by Rev. Aidan Moon

In His Presence

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

“You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

– Psalm 16:11, English Standard Version

My parents dog, Breeze, is a bundle of enthusiasm. On this particular early morning walk out at their place, he was simply thrilled to be with me. He ran laps around me, a look of joyful pleasure in movement, in running, sniffing, exploring, and then returning to my side.

I have often seen such a reflection of creaturely joy in the dogs I have known. And it makes me think that perhaps our God sees us similarly, and delights to see us delight in His world, listening to His will, heeding His call. Too often, my faith becomes a to-do list, a measuring stick, or a boundary. The Law is not a bad thing, as it protects us. But the path of God is the path of life. The end of the matter is not to check boxes, but to have life, life to the full. Our God has also created a beautiful world to experience. And even in a broken world, Jesus has made us new, given us new life that has begun already. He gives us a deeper joy than we can find on our own by coming near to him. There is joy to be found, fullness of joy, in the presence of our Lord. In trust, I release my need to control, and receive the ability to delight. What joy!

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado