Psalm 80:1-7 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 80:1-7 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth
Verse 2before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh. Stir up your might, and come to save us!
Verse 3Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Verse 4O Lord God of hosts, how long will you be angry with your people's prayers?
Verse 5You have fed them with the bread of tears, and given them tears to drink in full measure.
Verse 6You make us the scorn of our neighbors; our enemies laugh among themselves.
Verse 7Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Devotion
This eloquent plea for deliverance from enemies reminds me of Ghidey, a newcomer to my congregation. She fled her home of Eritrea in Africa because of anti-Christian violence there. She is safe here with her family, but does not yet know if she will be allowed to stay here permanently. There are many people in the world without a permanent home or who live in places of violence. As we anticipate the birth of the Prince of Peace, may we pray and work for peace for those who have no peace, and homes for those who have no permanent, safe homes. May we be Christ’s living voice for those who are voiceless.
Prayer
Gracious God, may our Advent journey be guided by your desire for peace for all your creation. Amen.