Here's Your Sign!

Psalm 86:15-17

          "But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, 

          Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth. 

    16      Oh, turn to me, and have mercy on me! 

          Give Your strength to Your servant, 

          And save the son of Your maidservant. 

    17      Show me a sign for good, 

          That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed, 

          Because You, LORD, have helped me and comforted me."

We seek a sign that the Lord has turned back to us, from rebuke and chastening to favor and forgiveness. Faithful parents show their children this turn, they show love, encouragement, and assurance when the child turns back toward the right way. God gives this to us, in His Word and here at this Table. Here is your sign for good from God. The Heidelberg Catechism asks why God speaks of this meal as participation in the body and blood of Jesus. It answers with assurance. God wants to assure us that as surely as this bread becomes part of you, you have part in Christ and His salvation. No matter how discouraged or despairing you have been or are right now, trust and rest in God’s promises for your good.

5/26/13