You're listening to Encounter, a simple daily podcast of sacred and mindful meditations

to help you encounter the divine presence of God all throughout your day.

If you want to have free access to the entire library of 500 meditations, I encourage

you to download the Encountering Peace app where all the meditations are free as they should be.

Today's passage for meditation? Well, it can be a bit frightening.

We know from John chapter 10 that Jesus is the good shepherd and the good shepherd gives his

life for the sheep. But as we grow in our faith, the day will come when we leave the flock

to face the world alone. Jesus gives us words of wisdom and leaves us with the promise that,

in fact, we aren't alone. He is always with us, even when we walk in the midst of wolves.

Are you living and walking among wolves? Well, the theme for this meditation from Matthew

chapter 10 is about being on guard, being mindful of danger, but at peace that you are protected.

So expect persecution, but don't live in fear for the good shepherd is with you.

You spend your days being circled by wolves.

Well, begin your meditation by slipping into this safe place of divine sanctuary. You are safe here.

So rest your body. Just shudder your eyes. Relax your breathing.

Still your heart. And allow the Holy Spirit to encircle and cover you.

Secure in this holy retreat, listen to and reply to this reading from Philippians chapter 2,

and as I lead us, answer, Lord God, teach me to be shrewd and innocent.

And may the Lord bless the hearing and reading of his word.

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

So Lord God, teach me to be both shrewd and innocent.

Do everything without complaining and arguing so that no one can criticize you.

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