March 8, 2018 Thursday of the 3rd Week of Lent-B
Jeremiah 7:23-28
Psalm 95
Luke 11:14-23

Walk in all the ways I command you, so that you may prosper. Jer. 7:23

Lord, most of us spend an enormous amount of time, energy and worry trying to achieve prosperity. We study in school, work hard, make connections in the community, invest in stocks, and do all we can to be secure and safe. If all this is your will, O Lord, it is good. But I think you may be speaking to us through your prophet today about a different kind of prosperity. I think you may be encouraging us to be prosperous in what matters to you. Obedience to your commands doesn’t guarantee financial security or a wonderful career. But it does lead us to freedom, an abundant life, and peace. It will lead us to flourish in the strength to endure the trials and troubles we all encounter. You desire that we prosper in our relationships with you and our family and neighbors. You want us to live in peace with those around us and to be peacemakers when needed. You want us to serve you when we see you homeless, orphaned, widowed, alone, hungry and depressed. Lord, help me to choose your brand of prosperity over mine. May I walk with you in confidence today. Amen.