May the Lord Bless and Keep You

There is a blessing most of us have heard or seen before. Some of you might have it displayed in your home, or you’ve heard it countless times at the close of a church service. Just before the dedication of the Tabernacle, God gave Moses these words for Aaron and his sons to pronounce a special blessing upon the Israelites. We can certainly feel God blessing us in a special way right now, at this time, right when we need it.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious unto you; the Lord look upon you with favor and give you peace.” 

Numbers 6:24-26

Over the next few weeks, as things are starting to “open up” here in the Carolinas and across the country, many of us find ourselves dealing with a lot of questions and emotions. While we are certainly looking forward to connecting with coworkers, family, and friends we may not have seen in weeks, we’re also a little nervous about being “out and about” again. But, as God always does, He provides comfort exactly when we need it. Whether we’re heading back to work or to the office, beginning to get together with friends at our home, or sitting in a restaurant six feet from the next table…these ancient words of blessing are certainly reassuring and alive today.

The Lord bless you – May He shower us with all types of blessings.

     and keep you – May God be with us, guard us, and comfort us through our troubles and our fears.

  the Lord make his face shine on you – May He show us favor through His unconditional love. 

     and be gracious to you – May He give us grace, especially when we don’t deserve it.

 the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. – May we, through Him and only Him, find a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Check out this video of dozens of UK worship leaders singing, “The Blessing” written by our friends from Elevation Worship in Charlotte. Listen and be blessed.