My Spirit Abides Among You; Do Not Fear

Text: Haggai 2:1-9

Reflection and Question: “Take heart!” urges Haggai to the people in ruined Jerusalem as he encourages them to take up the hard work of rebuilding the Temple. The prophet makes it sound like God will tip up the whole world so that all the silver and gold can roll down into Jerusalem, which has to be a heartening image to an impoverished people with a big job in front of them. When Haggai insists that God’s spirit is with them and shares God’s very words, “In this place I will grant prosperity and peace,” everything has been said to quell their fears and set them to work. For what work do you need to take heart that God’s spirit is with you?

Prayer: God of all times and places, we listen to Haggai as if he were speaking directly to us. Quell our fears, strengthen our hearts and make Your presence known among us, we pray. Grant in our time and place Your prosperity and peace. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).