RETIRED?

Psalm 31:1, 19-24 (NRSV)

In you, O LORD, I seek refuge;
do not let me ever be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me.

O how abundant is your goodness
that you have laid up for those who fear you,
and accomplish for those who take refuge in you,
in the sight of everyone!
In the shelter of your presence
you hide them from human plots;
you hold them safe under your shelter
from contentious tounges.

Blessed be the LORD,
for he has wonderously shown
his steadfast love to me
when I was beset as a city under seige.
I had said in my alarm,
"I am driven far from your sight."
But you heard my supplications
when I cried out to youfor help.

Love the LORD, all you his saints.
The LORD preserves the faithful,
but abundantly repays the one
who acts haughtily.
Be strong, and let your heart
take courage, all you who wait for the LORD.



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The human mind may devise many plans, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will be established.
- Proverbs 19:21 (NRSV)
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WHEN I was 47 years old, I retired from a government job. I imagined a carefree future with lots of time to rest. After a few years, however, serious health problems and family situations depleted my savings. I needed work.

Soon, I started teaching. My students represented a cross-section of cultures, and I learned to appreciate new views of life from my contact with the young people and their varied perspectives.

I see God's tender love through all the changes I have experienced. I have a job I love, I can meet my expenses, and I feel full of energy. I have no doubt that had I followed my original plan, I would not be happy. More than likely I would have "retired" from the hustle and bustle of life, with only stagnant ideas.

Through all of this, I learned that if we place our lives in God's hands, we can find blessing in even the most adverse circumstances.

Prayer: Thank you, gracious God, that you are with us in all the changes life brings and that you promise us life in eternity with Jesus Christ. Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
When our circumstances change, God's goodness does not.

-- Graciela Murillo Paniagua (Morelos, Mexico)

PRAYER FOCUS: Those who cannot retire