To the Ends of the Earth: Legacy – Catholic Men's Devotionals, An Introduction
To the Ends of the Earth: Legacy – Week 2, Day 1 – The Shaking of the Earth Does Not Shake God
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In you, O LORD, I seek refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me!
Incline your ear to me,
rescue me speedily!
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me!
Yes, you are my rock and my fortress;
for your name’s sake lead me and guide me,
take me out of the net which is hidden for me,
for you are my refuge.
Into your hand I commit my spirit;
you have redeemed me, O LORD, faithful God.
Psalms 31:1–5
Trials and earthshaking tribulations do not shake the Lord, who is our rock of refuge. Though this world is full of sin and falsehood, acts of evil and human misery, God remains our deliverer and our stronghold. He cannot be moved by the forces that work to undermine the Church and our freedom in Christ. Yet his heart is moved by compassion and mercy to rescue his people from the persecution of enemies and the worship of worthless idols. God knows our distress and lifts us up, guiding us into the kingdom of his Son.
We know all too well that our lives can be shaken by the smallest difficulties. When we feel oppressed and distressed, we can be confident that we have a refuge in the One who always remains the same. Our confidence is an integral part of what it means to be men who leave a lasting legacy. How we rest on the rock-solid promises of Christ leaves a powerful example for those around us, particularly our children and our family of faith. It stands as a testimony of the strength and faithfulness of our good God.
Questions for reflection
What are some of the trials you face (or see) that trouble you the most?
When have you experienced God’s strength and guidance in the midst of trials?
How can you share the strength of Jesus Christ with another who is struggling today?
Praying with Scripture
For who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God? (2 Sm 22:32)
You can learn more about the To the Ends of the Earth Series HERE
You can watch and listen to this devotion HERE
About the Author
Mark C. McCann is an author and Ministry Consultant with more than 30 years of writing and ministry experience. He has published articles for a number of Catholic magazines and websites including St. Anthony Messenger, Emmanuel Magazine, Liguorian Magazine, Catholic Stand, the Connecticut Catholic Men's Conference, and Homiletic and Pastoral Review. He recently published the 4-volume Catholic men's devotional, To the Ends of the Earth, as well as the 2021 Advent Daybreaks devotional and 2022 Lenten Daybreaks devotional with Liguori Publishing. He has also released his End Times novel series, Jacob's Dream: The Vision and Jacob's Dream: The Final Battle. He was a radio host and producer for 8 years at a Connecticut Christian radio station and has worked as a Catholic religion teacher/campus minister and a parish youth minister. He has also served the Norwich, CT Diocese as a Youth Ministry Director and Family Life Director. He currently lives in Connecticut with his Proverbs 31 wife, where together they have brought up three incredible children. He strives each day to live out his call to be a man of words. You can learn more about Mark and his writing at www.wordsnvisions.com.
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