Today’s scripture: John 4:43-54 (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Pam Beutler):
I had just pulled in behind the police car, waiting at the light on the Meridian entrance ramp to I-65. I was on my way to work. It was 6:30 am, and the snow had been falling steadily for several hours. I saw the number on the police car, number 609. I said a prayer for that officer. May God watch over and protect him.
As we merged onto the interstate, the snow had picked up and so had the traffic. I eased into the center lane, turned on NPR and settled back for what would be a long trip to Lebanon. In my rear view mirror, I caught a vehicle swing out from behind me into the left lane, swerve around those cars, and then swing back across into the center lane in front of my van, and cut off a vehicle next to me. I figured he was afraid he would miss the exit ramp on 21st Street. Instead, he shot straight up the lane. There were a dozen or so cars scattered behind 609, feeling safe in the slow pace in inclement weather. I thought to myself, “There is an accident ready to happen — and didn’t the officer see him!?”
Later I saw flashing lights on the right, in the distance, and realized 609 must have pulled that Impala over. As we approached the 465 East / 65 North split I saw the officer, with snow swirling about, standing by the Impala. Cars eased over into the center lane. I know what we all were thinking, thank you for stopping that person before someone got hurt.
Warm and safe in my car I headed north, glancing in my rear view mirror at the Officer bracing himself in the winter storm, to write the Impala a ticket. It made me think — everyday 609 pulls out of the station to patrol the streets, to keep us safe, to enforce the law, virtually unnoticed until we need him.
How often do we take for granted the most important people that take care of us each day. . . a partner, a friend, or sometimes a complete stranger? Take time to notice, to appreciate, to stop and be thankful for all the 609s that weave in and out, all around our lives.
Thought for the day: Jesus was welcomed — but only because the people thought he would work miracles for them. I want to be more aware of all the people around me that bless my life — I shouldn’t need a “sign” to make me see the blessings.
Today, let’s join together in prayer for: the Sun Groups, that enrich and support the children of Jesus MCC.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. Use the item above as a starting point, or consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.