Week of March 19, 2001
Melanie H.

"May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."
     Corinthians 13:14

Anyone who attends worship services, weddings, and funerals is acquainted with benedictions--those positive, uplifting words usually spoken near the end of the service. Pay close attention to the benedictions you hear in the next few months. They are more than nice slogans used to signal dismissal. What are they really saying? What promises are mentioned?

When our son Jacob attended the Boychoir School he had the opportunity to attend worship at the Crystal Cathedral in California. He brought home the bulletin and the benediction was so touching from the Minister:

"May the Lord go before you to light the path and give you direction.May He go behind you to guide your steps. May He go beside you to keep you from stumbling. May He go above you to protect you, and may He go within you to give you the power of the Holy Spirit."

What words of benediction and blessing do you need today? We all need promises from the Word of God to strengthen us, encourage us, lift our thoughts and feelings, and keep us moving ahead in our lives. God's Word can do that for you.

Pray that the Holy Spirit may enlighten your heart and mind so that you can be one of God's candles. Amen.

Contributed by Melanie H.
Published Monday March 19, 2001
Week 17 of Liturgical Year C