A WORD FOR TODAY 2 AUGUST 2022

*O LORD, CHANGE MY STORY FROM SORROW TO JOY*

_"Out of them shall come songs of thanksgiving, and the voices of those who make merry. I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will make them honored, and they shall not be small."(Jeremiah 30:19)_

_*The words we find in the readings of today are definitely healing balms to a soul that is troubled and in pain. Truly we experience different situations at different times, but we look up to God for the help we need to get well and become strong again.(Psalm 121)*_

_When we are sick or troubled, we try to see a doctor or a counselor to share our worries and they give us the basic attention and probably help, by way of medication or treatment to help us get better._

_*We can also become spiritually sick, and in those moments we need a spiritual remedy. The sickness of the soul cannot be treated with physical medicine. We need to come to God who alone has the power to heal the wounds in our soul which is caused by sin.*_

_Inspite of what the people of Israel did against God by their disobedience, He promised to restore them and show them mercy. They were wounded and broken, but God is promising to restore their joy so that they shall give thanks._

_*When we are down and sick, there is pain and sorrow, but when healing comes, we are happy and joyful. You may be broken at the moment because of what you are going through, it may be sickness, heartbreak, no job, financial difficulties, disappointments, family issues, spiritual disconnection, emotional pain, anxiety and other things, no matter what you are going through, God can heal you and make you well again. Put your trust in Him and do not be afraid and you will see His power made manifest for your restoration.(Psalm 125)*_

_Pray to God today and He will come to your aid and restore your glory and honour and remove your shame. He will stand for you and with you and will not allow your oppressors to destroy you. If you draw near to God and hold Him firmly, He will be your God and you shall be a son or daughter to Him._

_*Just like Peter in the gospel reading, we must cry out to Jesus to save us before we sink. (Psalm 130). Pray with faith, give your heart to Him. He knows you and can save you, just draw closer to Him and let go of your old ways and He will renew your strength, revive you and make you a better person. No matter how grave and great the storms of life raging around you are, the Lord is greater than them all and He will walk upon the sea to come and help you. Do not be afraid, but have faith in God and everything will be well again.*_

_Good morning dearest one. Smile😊as you do your work and do have a miraculous day. May Jesus come to your aid and turn things around for you for the better. Amen. *And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.*_

*Meditation:* Jeremiah 30:1-2,12-15,18-22/Psalm 102:16-23,29/Matthew 14:22-36

*Watch-Word:* Take heart, It is I, have no fear.

*God's is readily available, seek Him with your heart and you will find Him and He will save you and restore your joy.*

(Tuesday of the eighteenth week in the ordinary time. Year II)

*© Rev. Fr. Augustine Eleke*