Today is May 29.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit.   
 
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 gospel of Mark, chapter 4.  

He said to them, “Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear. Consider carefully what you hear,” he continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.” 
 
As you come to prayer today, which image feels more connective to you: a lamp, either hidden or on it’s lampstand. Or a measuring cup... being used by you, and then toward you? 
 
As you listen to the words of this text again, ask God to illuminate them with His spirit. Be attentive to the word or phrase that stands out to you. 
   
Jesus tells his listeners to ‘consider carefully what you hear.’ As we end our time of prayer, ask God to increase your understanding of scripture. As Him to stir up your gifts of discernment and wisdom when you read the Bible. And finally, ask Him to teach you how to ‘consider carefully’ his words to you.

Lord God, Almighty and Everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Music: "All Things Rise" - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)