2 Samuel 23:3-4 (NIV)
When one rules over men in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of
God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like
the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth.
Living in NM provides
an interesting perspective on this passage. Our land stays so dry most of the
time that we are used to seeing beauty in tones of browns and grays. But every
once and a while God blesses our land with showers, and it doesn’t take much to
bring out all the vivid greens hiding there all along. The “brightness after
rain” is truly an amazing sight to see!
The phrase, “see as
far as you can look” is another enjoyable feature of our surrounding area. When
you live out here, there are few obstacles blocking the wonderful panoramic view
in any direction. Admittedly, I’ve seen far more sunsets than sunrises, but a “sunrise
on a cloudless morning” is indeed spectacular.
The passage selected
today is identified as a portion of King David’s last words, his last oracle. This
passage references the life of David as king and ruler. But I also think it
bears importance for us as individuals today. We honestly have no idea how much
of an impact our lives can have on the lives of others. When we keep our
disposition positive, and we strive to please God in all that we do, we send a message
of brightness and hope to others around us. Perhaps you have never considered
yourself to be a “sunrise on a cloudless morning,” or “the brightness after the
rain,” but you can be just that to someone in need. It reminds me of a very old
hymn…
Do not wait until some deed of greatness you may do, Do not
wait to shed your light afar.
To the many duties ever near you now be true, Brighten the
corner where you are.
Just above are clouded skies that you may help to clear. Let
not narrow-self your way debar,
Tho’ into one heart alone may fall your word of cheer,
Brighten the corner where you are.
Here for all your talent you may surely find a need, here
reflect the Bright and Morning Star,
Even from your humble hand the bread of life may feed,
Brighten the corner where you are.
Brighten the corner where you are! Brighten the corner where
you are!
Someone far from harbor you may guide across the bar,
Brighten the corner where you are.
(Ina Mae Duley Ogdon, 1872-1964)
Gracious Heavenly Father,
Thank you for those
who have brightened our day when we needed it most. Thank you for opportunities
to brighten someone else’s day. May we faithfully respond.
In Christ’s name we
pray, Amen.
Respectfully written and submitted by
Dotty Willmon, Resurrection Christian—looking for the blessed hope of
Christ’s return!
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