humility and trust

When I have short notice to share or minister, eg. a hospital visit, or a last minute Wednesday noon communion, or like today, being asked to pray with a group of peanut processors, I usually reflect on the Scriptures I've just been reading either in my daily devotions or in church.

Last evening I was asked by one of our members who owns the Summerdale Peanut Company to come out this morning and pray for them; they are entering an intense time of processing the peanut harvest and the owner is concerned about safety and honestly just desires an abundant harvest and blessing for all who will be working hard the next month or two.

I decided to use two Scriptures: the epistle from yesterday's eucharistic lectionary (James 4:6-10) and the gospel from today's Daily Office lectionary (Matthew 6:25-34). I shared a very mini-sermon after each. Here's a synopsis of what I shared and/or prayed:

Praying for safety is not a magic trick or some kind of manipulation of God or trying to convince God to do something for us. It is simply an act of dependence and humility. He is God and we are not. He is big, we are small. We are not bigger and stronger than the machines with which we work, or around which we work. We can't control the weather or make the peanuts grow. Yes, this text does remind us that we are sinners - doing our own thing our own way without God, whether that's some kind of spectacular sin or something very accepted by those around us. We don't come because we deserve it, but to humble ourselves before God and ask for help, for protection.

But remember, too, that God cares for you. We have breath and life today. We ate this morning. We have work to do. Don't be anxious, but trust the God who cares for you. Our coming together to pray can also be a sign of trust in God, who sees us and hears us and cares for us.

We see God's care in so many ways around us, and ultimately in his Son Jesus Christ who loves us and, in utter humility and totally trusting his Father, gave himself for us and for our salvation. Thanks be to God.