Daily Bread September 01

Feed My Lambs
Grace Andrews of Independence, MO, USA


…Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” -John 21:15

Just picture Jesus gathering the chosen few disciples around him, teaching them, listening to their hopes, dreams, and fears, and loving them unconditionally.

I can still see in my mind’s eye the unforgettable experience of the close of the day growing up. At bedtime, it meant baths had been taken, teeth were brushed, and pajamas were on. As I walked into the living room from the kitchen, drying my hands on a towel, the sight that greeted me was always the same-our five children lying in a circle on their tummies on the big oval rug in the middle of the living room floor, leaving a space only for me. They already had whatever book we were reading, prominently waiting and open to the right page, in the center of the circle. It had become our routine to read to them from a variety of books each night. These included Bible stories for children, None to Give Away by Elsie Doig Townsend, Five Little Peppers and How They Grew by Margaret Sidney, and many other wonderful uplifting children’s stories.

As something emotional would come up in a story, I could not help my voice faltering, and I would tear up. A small voice, or voices, would immediately protest, saying, “Mommy, don’t stop now; we want to hear what happens.” So I would compose myself and read on. At the end of two or three chapters it was time for hugs and kisses and prayers. Then I would watch as my precious children all happily trundled off to bed. That time was all too short, but it lives on in memory.

They have all grown now with wonderful families of their own, families with their own traditions and nurturing. If I had one message today it would be this: If you are young, feed Jesus’ little lambs. Teach them; listen to their hopes, dreams, and fears; and above all, love them unconditionally. Like those honored disciples, they will reap great rewards. If you are old, gather up each one of these treasured memories as they come to the surface like cream, and hold them in your heart. These are joyous moments well worth remembering and savoring.

Prayer Phrase

Help us see beyond our dark places and find our way closer to your loving light.

Spiritual Practice

Healing for Broken Spirits

Begin with quiet prayer. Ask God to help you detect some “sore places” in the body of Christ and God’s creation. Become aware of people who feel separated, wounded, or left out. Reflect on or write a short journal entry of healing words to at least one person who comes to mind. Ask God for words that will touch this person’s broken spirit like healing ointment. Keep this person in your heart and prayers today and act on any ideas that come to bring blessing and wholeness.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.

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