05-03-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 3, 2020
Scripture: Psalm 145:9, 17-18
The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made. The LORD is righteous in all his ways, faithful in all his deeds. The LORD is close to everyone who calls out to him, to all who call out to him sincerely.

Thought for the Day: I reference some of these words in this morning’s sermon, specially those who “call out” to the Lord. Though I added for this devotional vs. 9, and the reference to how the Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made. Is there a possible alternative translation here? When the author spoke of “all,” could it also be translated as a lot or many or a few more than some? Some might be surprised, but those are not option. The Hebrew word could be translated as “every” or “whole” which kind of keeps the same basic meaning. While there are many more exclusive passages found in the Old Testament, we need to pay attention to phrases and words like this that speak of God’s all encompassing love and concern. When this Psalm was written, these words were beyond radical. Religion, in every corner of the world, was exclusive – our god cares only about our people. It is passages like this one where, I believe, we begin to see with clarity the God who is genuinely concerned about every single human being, even the ones I don’t like. God is calling me to love my enemy because God already does. That’s a challenging word for today.

Prayer: I can always take a verse or two from here or there and build an argument for why I should hate someone, yet you, Gentle and Loving God, continue to sneak in with a generosity of grace that is embraces everyone…including me on my worst days. Thank you! Amen.

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