Psalm 23:1-6
"A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. ... "
Have you ever felt luck is passing you by? Are your nights and days inundated with the sad fact that you merely exist? Are there many days you just want a shower, or possibly a mere sprinkle of that good luck charm?
Luck becomes the foremost thought on the weekend of St. Patrick's Day for many. We begin to count our charms on the bracelet of life. After all, the luck of the Irish is prevalent when contemplating this holiday. All this hype of luck is doled out on websites and news fare making us question its prevelance in our own world. Yes, I'd bet this weekend you are wondering where your luck is lying. Under some undiscovered tree stump, I'm sure waiting to be discovered.
We all diverse visions of luck. What is your wish?
A secure, happy family
Children financially stable
A loving partner
Financial stability
A new job path
Good friendship
Great health
Furthering education
A raise
A decent boss
To love your job
Happy children
To feel happy
Pay your bills
Provide the basics
The above quote, Psalm 23 is a powerful verse. It reminds us of God's abiding love for each of us. Planting his seeds of protection in our very soul so that we are able to weather the difficult times. But I also believe we do bring our own luck though into game's play each day. This solidifies what we feel we deserve. If we feel unworthy, then life offers little advantage to us each day. As you well know, when life is in full saddle, and we are riding high, all good things can be lassoed.
So how do we ride high in that saddle again? Let's take to heart the famous St. Patrick prayer to shield us from any woes. Go on, write it down or print it, and read it each day this week. And, feel empowered again.
Traditional Irish Prayer
This Irish prayer is attributed to Saint Patrick and often referred to as the "breastplate" of St. Patrick--words that
shield.
I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Swiftness of wind,
Depth of the sea,
Stability of earth,
Firmness of rock.
I arise today
Through God's strength to pilot me;
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's hand to guard me.
Afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today
Against wounding:
Christ with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ on my right,
Christ on my left,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ in me.
I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of Creation.