Like everyone, I am sure that you spend some time worrying about those you love. But, have you ever been heart-sick with fear because someone you love is in real danger? It can be an overwhelming experience.

 One day last week I was reading about some of the more famous people who had served in combat during the Second World War. One such person was the late actor Jimmy Stewart who flew combat missions over Germany. When he was asked how he dealt with the terror of being shot at in combat, Jimmy Stewart replied, "I kept a letter from my dad in my pocket whenever I was in combat. It was a kind of protection from evil. It was my dad's way of praying a shell of protection around me. It did the job. I was able to survive some horrible battles."

Here's that letter:

"My Dear Jim boy,

Soon after you read this letter, you will be on your way to the worst sort of danger... I am frightened for you, but I am counting on the enclosed copy of the 91st Psalm. The thing that takes the place of fear and worry is the promise of these words...I can say no more to comfort you...I love you more than I can tell you, love, Dad"

The 91st Psalm:  "You will be safe in God's care; his faithfulness will protect and defend you... God will put his angels in charge over you to protect you wherever you go."

As I read those words I began to think about all of the people I know who are heart-sick over someone they love who is sick, suffering or in some other kind of danger. I think that every one of us carries those we love in us and we are all looking for ways to keep them safe. Perhaps it might be a good thing if we were to pray Psalm 91 as a kind of "prayer of protection" or maybe we might call it a "Prayer of Safe-keeping".  I have already begun to do this for all of those I love, and I offer it to you as a way of caring for your loved ones. It beats the heck out of worrying!