Saturday, January 21, 2017

Today’s Scripture Reading  | Psalm 29

Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings,
   ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name;
   worship the Lord in holy splendor.

The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
   the God of glory thunders,
   the Lord, over mighty waters.
The voice of the Lord is powerful;
   the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.

The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars;
   the Lord breaks the cedars of Lebanon.
He makes Lebanon skip like a calf,
   and Sirion like a young wild ox.

The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire.
The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness;
   the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.

The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl, 
   and strips the forest bare;
   and in his temple all say, “Glory!”

The Lord sits enthroned over the flood;
   the Lord sits enthroned as king forever.
May the Lord give strength to his people!
   May the Lord bless his people with peace! (NRSV)

Reflection
One of the images of God I resonate with the most is that of the “still, small voice.” It reminds me to take time and notice all the small ways in which God is present in nature, in my relationships, and in the interactions I have. Psalm 29, however, does not talk about that depiction of God.

The vibrant description of God as a resounding voice that towers over every creation, breaking down natural and human-made barriers, is a really humbling image. It reminds us that while we can be in awe of God’s presence during the most fragile and solitary moments, we should remember God is an all-powerful force that has brought about creation beyond our comprehension.

It’s common for us to search for answers, share our opinions, and try to take on every task we can. But Psalm 29 reminds us that God is greater than all the tasks we accomplish and all the questions we answer. God breathed us into creation, and that all-powerful force is something we should always be in awe of.

How often do we take time to realize God is with us, not just when the world is silent, but when the world is ringing out in pain, destruction, and natural disaster? We try to be present and jump to fixing whatever challenge comes our way, but we must remember in those loud and pressing moments, God is more present than ever and humble ourselves to willingly accept that there is a merciful force greater than we can imagine.

Prayer
God of all creation, allow me to find you when life is still and when life ceases to offer peace. Guide me and humble me to take refuge in your presence. Amen.

Written by Jackie Lorens, Director, Chicago Lights Elam Davies Social Service Center

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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