Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
Verse 2Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, those he redeemed from trouble
Verse 3and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.
Verse 23Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the mighty waters;
Verse 24they saw the deeds of the Lord, his wondrous works in the deep.
Verse 25For he commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea.
Verse 26They mounted up to heaven, they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their calamity;
Verse 27they reeled and staggered like drunkards, and were at their wits' end.
Verse 28Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out from their distress;
Verse 29he made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed.
Verse 30Then they were glad because they had quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.
Verse 31Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wonderful works to humankind.
Verse 32Let them extol him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
Devotion
The congregation I currently serve has deep Norwegian roots and strong ties to the local fishing community. Consequently, there is a long-standing tradition known as “The Blessing of the Fleet” before the start of each year’s fishing season.
This spring representatives gathered at Fisherman’s Terminal in Seattle where we prayed for God’s blessing on the men and women who harvest the sea. We prayed that they might have a prosperous season, that they be good stewards of God’s bounty, and that they return home safely.
It wasn’t until God called me to serve here that I learned of the dangers workers in the fishing industry face, especially those at sea. Many of these men and women are people of great faith who know all too well what it is to call on the name of the Lord! More importantly, they know the One to whom their praise and thanks ought to be given.
Prayer
We give you thanks, gracious God, for the bounty of the sea and for protecting the men and women who harvest it on our behalf. Continue to calm the waters of the sea and keep them safe from all harm, even as you calm the waters of all who are troubled or in distress. Amen.