Saturday, November 04, 2023

Around David, there were many voices who did not trust God. They did not experience the grace and mercy of God and asked, “Who will show us some good?” This question remains present today. Many people would like to live satisfying and fulfilling lives, but they are blinded and do not know where to turn. Is this not the cry of the human being who in the depths of his heart yearns for his Creator? David cried out in response, “Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!” He cried out for God’s blessing, echoing the blessing God commanded Moses to share with Aaron and his sons to bless the children of Israel: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you” (Num. 6:24‚ì25). God wants to bless His people and wants to use us as priests to be channels of that blessing. In my country, Puerto Rico, it used to be common for parents and close relatives to bless their children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, both when leaving and arriving home. “Blessing,” the child would say; “God bless you, my dear,” the adult would reply. Thus, they would cry out to God for protection for that beloved child. Receiving the blessing gave us security and made us experience the presence of God in our lives.

It was a unique and enriching experience that strengthened my calling and motivated me to continue working on the preparation of disciples and leaders for the Kingdom of God. Thanks, Haggai.