Christ All Around Me

Psalm 139:5 You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.

Summary: When life feels uncertain or heavy, I return to a simple prayer that reminds me I am surrounded by Christ on every side.

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I am a day early in my pastor letter because today is St. Patrick’s Day, and I have found myself returning again and again to a prayer that has carried Christians for centuries. It is often called St. Patrick’s Breastplate, and a portion of it has become a steady companion for me, especially when I feel low or unsafe.

Christ with me,

Christ before me,

Christ behind me,

Christ in me,

Christ beneath me,

Christ above me,

Christ on my right,

Christ on my left,

Christ when I lie down,

Christ when I sit down,

Christ when I arise,

Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,

Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,

Christ in every eye that sees me,

Christ in every ear that hears me.

There are moments in life when fear creeps in quietly. Sometimes it is a conversation that unsettles us. Sometimes it is the weight of uncertainty. Sometimes it is simply the exhaustion of carrying too much for too long. In those moments, I do not need complicated theology. I need presence.

This prayer reminds me that I am not alone. Not in front of me. Not behind me. Not within me. Not around me. Christ is already there, holding, surrounding, steadying.

What I love about this prayer is that it does not deny reality. It does not pretend that life is easy or safe. Instead, it speaks a deeper truth. No matter what I am facing, I am held in the presence of Christ.

I want to encourage you to pray this prayer this week. Say it slowly. Let each line settle into your body. Pray it when you wake up. Pray it when you feel anxious. Pray it when you walk into something difficult.

Let it become a rhythm of courage. Let it remind you that wherever you go, Christ is already there.

You are surrounded. You are held. You are not alone,

Pastor Anny+

Prayer

Christ, surround me with your presence in every direction. Hold me steady in your love and give me courage for whatever lies ahead.