Pasture Living
Scripture Reading — Psalm 95:1-7
He is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care.
If you are a parent, maybe you have experienced what seems like ingratitude on the part of your children. When so much of our lives centers on their physical, educational, spiritual, financial, and transportation needs, and they often seem to take it for granted, we can become discouraged.
But today I received an email from my son that made my heart glad. It showed that he is aware of some of what my husband and I have done for him. And he was grateful!
Psalm 95 reminds us that “we are the people of [God’s] pasture, the flock under his care.” Are we aware of the benefits of pasture living?
In the parable of the lost son, when the younger son returns home and his older brother resents the celebration that follows, the father says to the elder son, “Everything I have is yours” (Luke 15:31).
To be a people under God’s care means that abundant goodness is always available to us. In God’s pasture, there is no scarcity of goodness. God’s gifts of his Spirit to us and of faith, hope, and love do not diminish when they’re given to others as well. These things simply multiply; there’s always more than enough!
Today we’re called to explore how we can live in gratitude for the rich, green pasture of God’s care as we extend God’s goodness to others.
Aware of the abundant goodness you provide for us, loving God, prompt us to respond in gratitude and generous living. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Ruth Boven
Ruth Boven serves as minister of congregational life at LaGrave Ave. CRC in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She and her husband, Greg, have two adult children. They find rich purpose in urban ministry and delight in enjoying the wonders of God's good creation.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!