God’s Place for You
From time to time, I’ll read different versions of the Bible. This can help even familiar passages come alive in new ways. One morning I was reading Eugene Peterson’s Message version of the Bible and I was struck by his introduction to the book of Joshua. He wrote, “God’s great love and purposes for us are worked out in the messes, storms and sins, blue skies, daily work, and dreams of our common lives, working with us as we are, and not as we should be.”
Then, later I was in 1 Corinthians 7:17. Peterson translates the verse this way: “And, don’t be wishing you were someplace else…Where you are right now is God’s place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there.”
This made me reflect on the context of my life. That morning, when I prayed the Lord’s prayer, I added a few words, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done – in my life, in my relationship with my family, in my daily work, in the church, on Earth… as it is in heaven.
Let us pray: God of grace, thank you for working with us as we are – not as we should be. Thank you for your presence in our families, in our jobs, in our recreation, and in our relationships. Give us eyes to notice and hearts to respond. Wherever we find ourselves this day, may we be instruments of your grace. Amen.
Daily Message Author: Joe Albright
Joe began his ministry in Sarasota, Florida as an associate pastor, and it was in this capacity that he worked alongside the Reverend Dr. Roger Kunkel. Roger was a colleague who became a mentor and treasured friend. From Sarasota, Joe was called to Jacksonville, Florida where he served as the Head of Staff at Hodges Boulevard Presbyterian Church. Currently, Joe and his family worship and serve at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Switzerland, Florida. Full Bio
