Today is the 12th day of Lent.
 
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”  
 
Today’s reading is from the Psalm 128.
 

How joyful are those who fear the Lord—
    all who follow his ways!
You will enjoy the fruit of your labor.
    How joyful and prosperous you will be!
Your wife will be like a fruitful grapevine,
    flourishing within your home.
Your children will be like vigorous young olive trees
    as they sit around your table.
That is the Lord’s blessing
    for those who fear him.
May the Lord continually bless you from Zion.
    May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live.
May you live to enjoy your grandchildren.
    May Israel have peace!

 
This is a song that pilgrims would sing on the road to Jerusalem as they would travel to celebrate holy days like Passover. Take a moment and imagine what it would be like to be a pilgrim on that road filled with people. Can you hear the children laughing? Can you see the dust on your feet? Can you feel the fresh breeze coming up from the valley? Can you hear yourself singing as you walk through the gates of Jerusalem? You are finally home with God.

These pilgrims had oriented their whole lives—their personal, family, and communal life around the worship of God. The idea is that when you orient your whole life around God, God will bless you, life will go well with you. As you hear the passage again, think about how God has blessed you because you’ve oriented your life around him.

As you continue through your day, be mindful of the ways that God continues to bless you. Do you have joy today? Are you flourishing? Is your life prosperous? Do you enjoy the blessing of friendships or family? Have you been blessed with a long life? Keep a posture of thanksgiving throughout your day.
 
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Music: All The Ways - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)