Daily Devotional 9.23.11

The Holiday Spirit

“Come ye yourselves apart, and rest awhile: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.” (Mark 6:31)

There is something in our blood which cries out at certain times for rest and change. We may love our home, our work, and chance of doing our share in the toil of this work-a-day world, but when the summer comes we long to escape from the crowded city, the arduous toil, and pine for respite and rest. The love of Nature is a sacred heritage from the love of God, and it is His voice that calls to us: “Come, My children, Be glad with Me, breathe the scented air which I have flavoured in its passage through clover-fields, gorse, and heather; rejoice in the woods and flowers, golden sunsets and purple mountains; the glory of the ocean and the sea-shore.”

But we must be unselfish, if we would really enjoy our holiday. It is difficult to resist the temptation to obtain the best possible return for our money, and a little over, even at the expense of others. Always think of some one else–the short Zacchaeus who cannot see over your shoulder! The child who loves to look out of the carriage window; the invalid who cannot stand the draught; the tired mother with the restless children! Look out for daily opportunities for showing the gentleness, sweetness, and unselfishness of the Lord Jesus.

Make time to be alone sometimes. It is a mistake always to be in the presence of another. The soul must be still and quiet. There are accents in the voice of God so deep and still, that the breathing of a companion may make them inaudible. But it is delightful to have a choice friend and companion with whom you can hold sweet fellowship, and “there is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” He will draw near and walk with you, and as He talks with you by the way, your hearts will bum within you.

Remember those who are in poverty, in sickness, and in need, and amidst your own gladness and joy, send a portion unto them for whom nothing is prepared (Nehemiah 8:10-12).

Devotional Prayer

Dear Lord, Father in heaven hear my prayer.

Father, you are my light and my strength. I render unto you Lord, for all the many blessings you bestow upon me. I praise thee Lord, and give thee thanks all the days of my life. Thou art worthy, O’ Lord, to receive glory, to be honored above all, and to receive my unconditional love.

I pray this to you in Jesus name, Amen.