WEDNESDAY

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 139:7-12

Alone is what we feel when we sense that no one is there for us. Ironically, we can feel alone even when surrounded by people. Have you ever felt lonely in the midst of a crowd? The proximity of people is not the same as the presence of a person. We all long to know and be known, echoing God’s original observation that it is not good for humanity to be alone. Separation from God is often used to describe the ultimate consequence of sin, eternal death. To be alive is to be present. Perhaps that is why feeling alone can feel like dying.

One of the classic theological terms used to describe a quality of God is omnipresence, the truth that God is always everywhere. This reminds us that no matter how we feel, we are never truly alone. God is present, not only sustaining life as with all creation, but also personally present, even when we are unaware.

This is what David expresses in today’s passage. There is nowhere we can go from God’s presence, and wherever God is, God is personally present. If we are willing to embrace that in faith, we can know that we are not alone. Even more, we do not have to be afraid. Awestruck at times, yes. But not fearful. In Scripture, angels often begin by saying, “Do not be afraid.” As we are reminded, “There is no fear in love, for perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). Emmanuel, God with us, is very good news.

• How do you feel about the idea that there is nowhere you can go where God is not present?

• Have you had moments when you felt hidden from God’s presence? How did you discover that even the darkness is not dark to God?

• Are there places in your life, or in the life of someone you know, where a reminder is needed that God is not afraid of the dark, and we do not have to be either?

• Are you aware that even now, right where you are, God is present with you, not only geographically but personally? Take a few moments to rest in that realization.

• What do you sense God would most like you to hear as you reflect on this passage?

Take a few moments to share with God in prayer what is on your heart and mind now.