Thursday, Mar 16

Saturday, March 16, 2024

In Times Like These

Scripture: Isaiah 26:3 (TLB) – “He will keep in perfect peace all those who trust in Him, whose thoughts turn often to the Lord.”

Message: Just a few years ago my life was in a good mode. I had a comfortable home, an ancient, but reliable car, and good neighbors. I was a part of Asbury's ministries and activities. I was grateful. I also assumed it would not change. Change it did. I became ill and was mis‑diagnosed with a serious illness and put on medication that made it worse.

One weekend my son and daughter-in-law came from Saint Petersburg to see me. While here they realized I was not well. On their return home my son immediately made plans to move me to Saint Petersburg where he could oversee my care. I did not want to leave my life in Altamonte Springs. I did not want to leave Asbury United Methodist Church, nor my friends and activities. I knew it was the right thing to do, as I am not able to continue leading the life that I led. In all my travails, this hymn “In Times Like These” written by Fannie Crosby has been a great comfort to me, and I pray others may also find it comforting in times of uncertainty.

Jesus, I love Thee, Thou art to me
Dearer than ever mortal can be;
Jesus, I love Thee, Savior divine,
Earth has no friendship constant as Thine.
Tenderly folded, safe on Thy breast,
There be my refuge, there let me rest.

Full of compassion, loving and mild,
Thou art my father, I am Thy child;
Thou wilt forgive me, when I am wrong;
Thou art my comfort, Thou art my song.
Blessèd Redeemer, precious to me,
Draw me still closer, closer to Thee.

Jesus, I love Thee, reign in my heart,
Oh, may Thy Spirit never depart.
Jesus, I love Thee, yes, Thou art mine –
Living or dying, still I am Thine.
Jesus, I love Thee, Thou art to me
Dearer than ever mortal can be.

Fanny Crosby, 1872, Public Domain. The Cyber Hymnal #8149

Prayer: Father, God, I am grateful for Your patience with me. In all times You are my comfort. Amen.

Verta Sorensen

There is no devotional for tomorrow, Sunday, March 17.

Sundays are not included in the Lenten Devotionals as, traditionally, Sundays as Holy Days, were not considered to be part of Lent.