05-19-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 19, 2020
Scripture: Psalm 33:13-21
The LORD looks down from heaven; he sees every human being. From his dwelling place God observes all who live on earth. God is the one who made all their hearts, the one who knows everything they do. Kings aren’t saved by the strength of their armies; warriors aren’t rescued by how much power they have. A warhorse is a bad bet for victory; it can’t save despite its great strength. But look here: the LORD’s eyes watch all who honor him, all who wait for his faithful love, to deliver their lives from death and keep them alive during a famine. We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. Our heart rejoices in God because we trust his holy name.

Thought for the Day: Yesterday was a day filled with problems and frustrations, yet everyone of them came from the fact that I am an incredibly privileged human being on this earth. It started with internet difficulties, a cracked window when a rock was swept-up by my weed eater, I broke my watch, a guy cut in line at the pharmacy with absolutely no shame, and I have a couple of slugs who have decided to dine on my two biggest tomatoes. To be honest, there were a few moments when I felt myself getting upset, but with each of them there was some healthy perspective. I’m not always this way. Little things can gnaw on me, but lately I have been more conscious of my privilege and the gross abundance that I have at my disposal. When my internet was down, I used my cell service. The window will get fixed. My watch was under warranty, and with a small fee will be replaced. We were still able to get our medications and the delay was not that big of a deal. And with some slug stuff, I feel confident that my slimy friends will not return to the garden. Today, there are so many people who are facing job layoffs, others struggling with mental health that has been intensified by the stress associated with the pandemic, graduates who will miss certain rites of passage, parents and teachers trying to figure out a new way of doing this education thing, families not able to grieve appropriately because of restrictions, etc. It is easier to focus on the big stuff when we are not stressed by the problems brought about by privilege.

Prayer: You watch over us, O Lord, with your faithful love. Your Spirit provides us strength for the day, even when the challenges appear overwhelming. Let us feel your hand in ours as if we are walking side by side. I do not know what today will bring, but where I need some perspective, help me gain it. And where I need comfort and encouragement, may I find it as well. Amen.

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