Scripture of the Day
"Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear." -- Isaiah 65:24
Reflection
Early in his ministry career, a pastor received a piece of advice from his father that stayed with him for decades. The father said there was one thing that would set him apart as a leader and make him consistently effective. Curious, the son asked what it was. The answer: "Return your phone calls." The son was surprised -- that was it? His father explained that successful people follow through, and that most people, in his experience, simply don't.
It's a small thing. But it points to something significant. To return a call is to say: you matter enough for me to respond.
The gospel tells us that God responds to us. We have access -- Paul's word in Romans 5 -- to our Heavenly Father. Not the limited, conditional access of a petitioner hoping to get past the gatekeeper, but the access of a child approaching a parent who loves them. He hears. He responds. He does not miss our calls.
This is not a small thing. It is one of the most staggering promises in Scripture. The God who spoke the universe into existence -- who is running history toward its intended end -- is attentive to you, personally, when you call. He has given you his peace. He has given you his Spirit. And when you pause and ask, he responds.
Question for Personal Reflection
How often do you actually pause and ask God for peace, expecting that he will respond?
Action Step
Call out to God specifically today about one thing weighing on you. Then be still and listen.
Prayer
Lord, thank you that you respond when we call. Teach us to come to you more often, with more honesty, and with greater expectation. Amen.
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