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September 7
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“Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.”  (Psalm 84:10, NIV)

Today’s scripture reflects the ambition of every faithful follower of Jesus: Preferring a single day in God’s presence to years elsewhere; preferring the most humble of stations in God’s service to any position of privilege or ease in the places where God’s will is despised.

These choices are not abstract, nor are they theoretical.  Each day, we have the opportunity to enter the courts of God through bible reading, prayer, meditation on God’s word, acts of charity, worship, and reflection; but do we?  Do we, instead, choose “elsewhere”?  – Luther

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September 6
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“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.  Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.”  (Psalm 84:11-12, NIV)

Imagine life before the advent of electricity: The activities of everyday living revolved around the hours of daylight.  Nighttime activities were severely limited because lamp oil and candles were cumbersome, and expensive alternatives.

Perhaps we grasp the value of a shield a bit easier, if only because our cars have “windshields” that not only shield us from being buffeted by the wind as we zip along the streets and highways; but from bugs, rocks, and rainwater.  A windshield is a “go/no-go item” for most motorists: If it is in place, you go; if not, you choose to ride with a friend.

The psalmist reminds us that the Lord God is both a sun and shield.  Abide in God at all costs, and you will never dwell in darkness.  Trust in Him at all times, and He will be your shield from perils both seen and unseen.  – Luther

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September 5
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Labor Day

“Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.  By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.  Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.”  (Genesis 2:1-3, NIV)

The first U. S. Labor Day holiday was observed in 1882. The first “Labor Day” holy day ever was at Creation!

The U. S. Labor Day was the idea of the American labor movement, and was “dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers.”  God’s “labor day,” (a. k. a. “the sabbath”) is His idea, and is a day of physical rest from one’s work; and a time of reflection on God’s blessings.

The U. S. Labor Day holiday comes ’round once a year.  God’s holy day comes up each week. Each is an opportunity to rest, reflect, and be refreshed for the days that follow.  Each is a gift.  Don’t leave either unopened!   – Luther

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