Psalm 33:20-22 – Our soul waits for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you. (ESV)

During the course of the day, students ask me to help them to use the software and hardware in my computer area. I attempt, by my professional application, to engender a sense of peace and quiet confidence within myself and those who have asked for my support.

At lunchtime, I escape into the local town or park to regain my sanity, such as it is, because my reservoir of helpful energy has become as dry as a bone!

Today as I walked around the lake after a heavy rain, I spotted a swan family: a father (cob), a mother (pen), and six young cygnets. As I passed by on the lake's perimeter path, the cob followed my progress with a brooding look that fixed my eye in such a way as if to say, "Mine!" Anyone who has experienced a swan, six feet tall and flapping its wings in full defence mode, knows to respect that look.

The six cygnets continued to paddle gently and pick at organic debris with their beaks in an area corralled by their parents, in the full knowledge that their parents brooded over them to keep them safe from harm. Therefore, they were at peace as they paddled.

In contrast to this place of cygnet safety, I am mindful of the fear that robs many of their peace of mind, because they do not understand, or lack the knowledge of how to achieve their aims. It is a great satisfaction to see students grow over their time here.

I believe God's desire is to overcome any fear of the world in us. God, through the power of the Holy Spirit and the grace of Jesus, broods over His disciples with a watchful eye to set them free from fear. In effect, he says, "Mine!"

Luke 12:32 – Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (ESV)

Prayer: Lord, we rejoice and praise Your name. You brood over us, and You first loved us, fallen and flawed as we are. Please forgive us when we lose our nerve and forget Your purpose in our lives. Grant us once more an awareness of Your brooding presence and peace, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

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About the author:

Rod Marshall <roderickhenrymarshall@gmail.com>
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
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