April 23rd Reflection - My Keeper - by Bill Lynch

Psalm 16
A Miktam of David.

Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I say to the Lord, ‘You are my Lord;
   I have no good apart from you.’

As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble,
   in whom is all my delight.

Those who choose another god multiply their sorrows;
   their drink-offerings of blood I will not pour out
   or take their names upon my lips.

The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup;
   you hold my lot.
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
   I have a goodly heritage.

I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
   in the night also my heart instructs me.
I keep the Lord always before me;
   because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices;
   my body also rests secure.
For you do not give me up to Sheol,
   or let your faithful one see the Pit.

You show me the path of life.
   In your presence there is fullness of joy;
   in your right hand are pleasures for evermore.

Reflection - My Keeper
O Lord, how I seek your protection.
   I ask that you keep me.
Even though I deserve death,
  O Lord protect and keep me, I pray.

There are many who would claim,
   "Am I my brother's keeper?
Yet you, O Lord, have sent Jesus Christ,
   my Keeper and my Protector.

When I reflect upon the life of Jesus,
   I draw near to the foot of the cross.
I see a Love of protection.
   I know that Jesus has come to keep me.

Yes it's in Jesus that I have come to life.
   Without you O Lord I would pass into eternal hell.
Yes it's at the foot of the cross and the open tomb,
   That I find that you have decided to keep me.

Your protection and your love O Lord,
   Are my life and my salvation.
Praise to you Almighty Father, Son and Spirit.
   All glory and honor and praise are to You.

Song
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0h9mGLh5WvI
Yes, we have become Easter people. See the Jesus alive and risen and rejoice. Alleluia! This song reminds us that the resurrection is everlasting Love. Jesus our Protector and the one who keeps us forever.

Prayer
Lord, you took me by surprise. Yes, you decided to reach your hands through the gates of hell and lift me up to new life. In your alone do I live. And to you alone do I give all honor and praise. Jesus lived, suffered, died and rose again... for me and for all people. Christ has risen! He has risen indeed! Alleluia!... today... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen