Today's Scripture:

Psalm 130 Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord; Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy. If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you. I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.

Read: Reflect on a story in your life that pertains to this scripture.
This Psalm talks a lot about redemption in a way. It makes me think of a person drowning or struggling to swim. The Lord comes to save us, handing us a lifejacket, but it is up to us if we want to take it. As Christians we struggle with lots of temptations and sins. It can be hard to free ourselves from those temptations, especially if we feel trapped in them. But no matter what there is always a way out. We can push the Lord away as many times as we want, but as soon as we call for Him, He will be on our side.

Reflect: What is this scripture telling you during this season?
This story reminds me of a time when I struggled with loss. My family lost a pet back in December, and it was a very hard time for us. Bruce, our French Bulldog, suffered with a sudden cancer that took his life. I remember feeling stuck, angry, but also comforted. Throughout his journey with cancer, he was in constant pain, and I knew that once he had passed it would all go away. It was hard seeing him go, but through constant prayer, it all felt ok. I knew that the Lord heard my cries for peace and healing and knew what was best. I prayed for comfort and understanding, and God gave me exactly that.

Respond: How is this scripture calling you to respond?
This scripture is calling me to lean more on God. I personally can stray from Him if things get stressful or challenging, but if anything, I need to lean on Him even more in those hard times.

About Liam Harper:
My name is Liam Harper, and I am a sophomore at Houston Christian High School. I am involved in the band where I play saxophone and guitar, and I am involved in the theater. I have 2 dogs: a French Bulldog and a Goldendoodle!
I went to Grace School from Pre-K-4 to 8th grade which is where I was introduced to the church. I have gone to Grace Church since the beginning of my 8th grade, and I have been on all of the mission trips from my 6th grade year to today!