04-14-2020 ~Inspirational Thought from Rev. Betty
Breath of God
We have just observed Lent, Palm Sunday, and the Easter Resurrection. This year, due to the pandemic, we haven’t been able to gather together for our usual observance. For me, during this time, I have turned to spiritual hymns, the Bible, and on-line services. One hymn, in particular, keeps going over and over in my mind—“Breathe on Me, Breath of God.” I share with you the first verse:
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.
This reminded me of Jesus’ resurrection and when in the evening of the same day, the disciples were hiding, fearful of the Jews; and Jesus came and stood in the midst of them and said, Peace be unto you. John 20:19. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost. John 20:22. This is an Aramaic idiom; “He breathed on them” means “he encouraged them.”
The disciples were discouraged when Jesus was crucified, but when he “breathed on them” after his resurrection, the disciples were empowered. At this time in our earthly journey, we can sing, read Scripture, and be encouraged, knowing we have the Faith, Peace, and Power to move through this experience. We include all people in our thoughts of Perfect Peace.
Isaiah 26:3 ~ “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee…”
