Monday, April 8, 2024  

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Today's Hymn
“When Morning Gilds the Skies”

When morning gilds the skies,
my heart awaking cries:
may Jesus Christ be praised!
Alike at work and prayer
to Jesus I repair:
may Jesus Christ be praised!

Does sadness fill my mind?
A solace here I find:
may Jesus Christ be praised!
Or fades my earthly bliss?
My comfort still is this:
may Jesus Christ be praised!

translated by Edward Caswall
Hymn 667, Glory to God
verse 1–2

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Reflection

I’m naturally a morning person, so I’m happy to get on board with the idea that sunrise (or thereabouts) is the ideal time to praise Jesus.

It’s harder to praise Jesus when filled with sadness or when “earthly bliss” has faded.

I guess that’s why I’m so passionate about seeing God at work in the day-to-day of life. When I spend time with God in the “work and prayer” of each day — whether saying grace with my family, running errands around my neighborhood, meeting with folks at church, or examining my day before bedtime — it feels comfortable and easy. And yet I am building up my spiritual reserves so I have something to draw on during the tough times.

Thankfully my mind isn’t often filled with deep sadness; it is, however, often filled with frustration, impatience, and even righteous indignation at the state of the world. It’s in those moments that I take comfort in Jesus’ presence, calling upon him for patience or perhaps the “just right” words to handle a situation.

For all those reasons, I am grateful. Grateful that Jesus rises with me and walks with me throughout my days. And whether at sunrise or after sleeping in, may we always find time to praise Jesus.

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Prayer
Loving God, thank you for being with us all day, every day. We are grateful that, whether working or praying, joyful or sad, we are never alone. We praise you! Amen.

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Written by Amy Pagliarella, Parish Associate for Caring Ministries

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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