Today’s Reading
“The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing.” -Zephaniah 3:17 (Amplified Bible)

Have you ever sat in a quiet room all alone and listened? Listen…do you hear your heart beat, the sound of birds chirping, children laughing, violins of worship, a cool breeze or rustling leaves? The sound…the presence of the Almighty God, The Lord is in our midst.

The Lord is all around and He is rejoicing. One year ago my family moved back to Charlottesville and though I grew up here, the months have been long and sometimes lonely as I try to find a new tribe of friends. As I read through Zephaniah 3:17 and Isaiah 43:1-2, I am reminded The Lord is always near, an ever present help, a comforter, a faithful friend and one who finds great delight in me, the one whom He has called by name.

Several years ago I took my first mission trip to Venezuela and then two more to Africa. Going to a foreign place, an unknown place, is well beyond my comfort zone. However, God assured me then that He is in the midst of any place He sends me. God loves to lead us to a place where we have to have complete dependence on Him – not to discourage but to give us assurance. He is who He says He is!

Reflection
Have you stopped to hear the sound of The Lord singing delight over your life? Have you slowed down, shut out all of the noise to hear His song of satisfaction, His song of love? Take a moment right where you are, close your eyes, take a deep breath and inhale songs of delight.

Prayer
Father God, as we breathe and as we listen, allow us to hear your voice. Allow us to listen to the songs you sing over us. Songs of redeeming love, songs of grace, songs peace. Father may we know your presence, may we rest in your presence and may we experience an unshakable joy that is found only in You!