Morning Glory 24

   

I’ll say it — 24 is the first age that ever so slightly feels old. It’s my last few days of being 23 and I feel like I’m standing at the edge of the shore — about to step into the waves of almost mid twenties. Feeling almost older, and maybe (maybe) a bit wiser, but still looking out at the ocean and feeling incredibly small. Probably sounds dramatic, but that’s the point. 12 year old Ash thought 24 meant all grown up and life would “totally” be figured out. Ha! Grace upon grace for learning one day at a time. Coffee cheers to you for not having it all together and liking it!

   

Psalm 23 became my age 23 prayer — life-giving words through the good, difficult, joyful, daunting, all-the-feels, unknown. As 23 is coming to an end, I want to spend our morning together reading this sweet Psalm. Let these words be our message and our mantra this week.

   

The Lord is my shepherd; I have all I need.

He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength.

He guides me along the right paths, bringing honor to His name.

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid,

for You are close beside me.

Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.

You honor me by anointing my head with oil.

My cup overflows with blessings.

Surely Your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me 

all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

Shepherd — He makes a way for us through the wilderness and brings us back when we wander.

Renewer — He gives us rest, even when we don’t admit how much we need it.

Guide — He leads us along right paths always leading us homeward.

Peace — He brings an inner stillness no other source can supply; limitless and free.

Strength — He alone provides every single thing we need to keep going or to go a new way.

Protection — He keeps us safe in mountains, valleys, and somewhere in between.

Comfort — He calms our fears and re-writes our thoughts with faith-colored ink. 

   

May it be so in every age to come.