2026 Lent Devotions
Tuesday, March 24
Isaiah 50:4-9a
4 The Lord God has given me
a trained tongue,
that I may know how to sustain
the weary with a word.
Morning by morning he wakens,
wakens my ear
to listen as those who are taught.
5 The Lord God has opened my ear,
and I was not rebellious;
I did not turn backward.
6 I gave my back to those who struck me
and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard;
I did not hide my face
from insult and spitting.
7 The Lord God helps me;
therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like flint,
and I know that I shall not be put to shame;
8 he who vindicates me is near.
Who will contend with me?
Let us stand in court together.
Who are my adversaries?
Let them confront me.
9a It is the Lord God who helps me;
who will declare me guilty?
“… Morning by morning he wakens, wakens my ear to listen as those who are taught. …”
I am and have always been a “morning person”. I enjoy getting up at the break of day, watching the sun rise, and sitting quietly contemplating the new dawn. Typically, it is the time for quiet and prayer. Beth and I take the time each morning to sing and pray “Morning Prayer”. For me, it starts the day off on the right foot.
When the weather is milder, such as in the late spring through early fall, I like to be outdoors either walking or riding my bicycle. There is something about the morning air that invigorates my spirit. It is my preferred time for prayer. Strolling through the park or riding along the river, my mind clears, opening me to the infused Word of God.
Not everyone is a “morning person” but the same attitude and mediations are available any time of the day. Whether morning or evening, afternoon or night, setting time aside to find stillness, practice prayer, and open yourself to the Spirit gives energy and light to the soul. Whatever the time or place, the daily practice of prayer and meditation helps one grow in faith, find respite amidst the world’s demands, and discover anew the awesomeness of our Lord.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for those times of the day that I spend with You. They renew my soul. Amen.