June 13, 2026

Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 2 - Psalm 18:1-2a, 27, 30a, 49; antiphon: Psalm 18:18b-19

Daily Lectionary: Proverbs 13:1-25; John 14:18-31

“I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,” (Psalm 18:1-2a)

In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.

These are words of witness. They speak of who God is and what He does for His people.

The Lord is our strength. And yet, I get caught in the lie of independence and self-reliance. I want to believe that *I* am strong. I want to believe that *I* can be brave, powerful, and mighty. And yet, in my most quiet thoughts - I know that I am not. I know that I am weak, I struggle, and I am not enough.

When I look at myself, when I rely on myself, when I think only of myself - I cannot be strong. The Third Article of the Creed teaches us that we ‘cannot by our own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ or come to Him.’ We are weak. In fact, in sin, we are dead. So this first verse in Psalm 18 is a gift - it reminds us that we don’t have to be strong. In fact, we have the Lord who is strength. It is in Him that we are brought to new life and are made holy. We lean on Him and trust in Him; we are indeed strong in God. His might is given to us.

The next verse speaks of God as our rock, fortress, and deliverer. Living in this broken world is hard. Sin hurts. This week has been rough. I have sinned, and I have been sinned against. It can often feel like there is no safe place to go. And yet, we are reminded that we are in Christ. He is our safe place. Church is where we receive His Gifts; we are forgiven, redeemed, loved, and shown mercy. We are delivered from evil and kept safe in God’s House. Indeed, God is immovable - His character does not change. He is the protection that is needed from all that would hurt, harm, or kill. He is the only one who can deliver us, who can rescue us, from the brokenness of sin.

God is your strength, your rock, your fortress, and your deliverer. When you attend the Divine Service, rest in the safety of God’s Word and His promises. Trust that your Baptism is your identity and God’s Word of Absolution is for you. Jesus’ Body and Blood is yours; eat and drink His promise. You are not alone, but are protected, loved, and safe in Jesus.

In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.

“Fear not! I am with you, O be not dismayed, For I am your God and will still give you aid; I’ll strengthen you, help you, and cause you to stand, Upheld by My righteous, omnipotent hand. (LSB 728:2)

Deac. Sarah Longmire, Curricula Curator for Higher Things and Director of Family Life at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO.