Psalm 61 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 61 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer.
Verse 2From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I;
Verse 3for you are my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.
Verse 4Let me abide in your tent forever, find refuge under the shelter of your wings. Selah
Verse 5For you, O God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
Verse 6Prolong the life of the king; may his years endure to all generations!
Verse 7May he be enthroned forever before God; appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him!
Verse 8So I will always sing praises to your name, as I pay my vows day after day.
Devotion
CNN brings us news of grief and turmoil from around the world. War and walls separate God’s people and many are filled with fear and despair. Yet our lives, with all its chaos and pain, are an opportunity for us to witness to God’s love. As we recall the promises God has made to us, we see that we are, indeed, completely safe. Distractions in our lives pull us in many directions and divert us from the power of God’s promise. When we trust and claim that promise and are rooted in God’s love we have nothing to fear. We then know that our “tent” is secure as we turn our fear into joy and proclaim the kingdom of God. In a world filled with fear, we are called to proclaim that we have nothing to fear, not even death.
Prayer
Dear God, help us remember your promises and live secure in your presence so that we may be at peace with you and all of creation. Amen.