Scripture reading
The Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and the man became a living being.
–Genesis 2:7
Thought of the Day
I was cleaning out my wallet the other day and came across my CPR certification card. A few months ago, I joined the boy scouts from our church and took a CPR class. I have been certified over the years, but since it had been a little while since I had taken a class, I decided to re-up. It is good stuff to know. The class covers basic first aid and spends most of the time on what to do if someone is not breathing. I paid close attention during this part of the class, because I realized that if I ever needed CPR, I would want the person giving it to me to have paid close attention in class. Anyway, seeing my card made me think about life giving breath and how God gave and gives us His life giving breath each and every moment of our being. I love this old prayer and hymn written by Edwin Hatch back in 1878.
Breathe on me, breath of God, Fill me with life anew,
That I may love what Thou dost love, And do what Thou wouldst do.
Breathe on me, breath of God, Until my heart is pure,
Until with Thee I will one will, To do and to endure.
Breathe on me, breath of God, Blend all my soul with Thine,
Until this earthly part of me, Glows with Thy fire divine.
Breathe on me, breath of God, So shall I never die,
But live with Thee the perfect life, Of Thine eternity.
The Good News today is that God does fill us with life anew. We are called to love what God loves and to do what He would do. God wants our souls to blend with His. He wants us to live with Him in eternity.
Prayer
Lord, Breathe on me. Let me inhale You. Amen.