Psalm 31.
Blessed be the Lord, for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me when
I was beset as a city under siege…Be strong, and let your heart take courage,
all you who wait for the Lord.
How many of us haven’t felt “beset as a city under
siege” lately? Recession, taxes, elections, wars, congestion, climate change,
education reform, mass shootings and more conspire against us. Challenges both
internal and external tempt us to turn inward, relying on ourselves rather than
the “rock of refuge” that is our God. Pitying ourselves when we do not get our
way. How we have worried over material things! How we have looked for
divisions, rather than similarities, between us! How we have sought justice
rather than offered forgiveness! How we have been afraid, instead of faithful!
Lord, give us strength to recognize our weakness.
Help us trust that you will “take me out of the net that is hidden for me,”
trapping us with worries about earthly matters.
As we focus on what’s most important in our Christian
lives this Lenten season, deliver us from the enemies of shame, sorrow and
sighing. Turn the hearts of our adversaries to love, as we turn our own hearts
to love them as you love us. Lord, help us know the abundant love you offer,
and focus our hearts and minds on your gracious salvation.
— Todd Woosley
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