SIGHS OF MERCY
“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:26-28)
Paul’s letter to the Romans has many words of grace to bring us strength and peace. Within the wisdom of Romans we read how the Spirit helps us in our weakness: “for we do not know how to pray as we ought.”
It’s comforting to know that God knows our hearts and helps us through those times when we are too troubled, confused, or distracted to find the “right” words. Prayers come easily at times when we believe we know exactly what we want. When we worry about a health concern or other troubling matter, prayer can even help us sort things out - especially when we aren’t sure what the best answer should be.
But there are times we might feel so troubled or undeserving that we stand speechless before God. Paul’s good news to us proclaims that God loves us enough to help us through those times. When we can’t seem to find the words, our Advocate, the Spirit, intercedes for us, “with sighs too deep for words.” Just being there is enough. And that’s helpful when we stand beside others in their time of need. We don’t need to have the right words for every situation, because it is our presence with those we love that truly matters.
Merciful God, you sent your Spirit to be among us so that we would never be alone, especially during those times we feel helpless. Thank you for standing beside us, for your sighs of love and mercy, and for your guidance along life’s way. Amen.
The Rev. Keith Dey
Pastor, Emanuel Lutheran Church
Southern Shores, NC
No comments:
Post a Comment