Psalm 85:1-7 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 85:1-7 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Lord, you were favorable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
Verse 2You forgave the iniquity of your people; you pardoned all their sin. Selah
Verse 3You withdrew all your wrath; you turned from your hot anger.
Verse 4Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away your indignation toward us.
Verse 5Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger to all generations?
Verse 6Will you not revive us again, so that your people may rejoice in you?
Verse 7Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.
Devotion
The anguish of a broken relationship is particularly gut-wrenching. Whether it's the disappointment of unmet expectations, the hurt of betrayal or an unexpected break-up, our hearts take a beating.
Amidst the pain, though, there is often an underlying wish that forgiveness and reconciliation will take place. Sometimes—with a lot of hard work and trust—those things do happen. Sometimes, when one person wants to work it out, but the other doesn't, they don't. And sometimes—as in situations of abuse and violence—maybe they shouldn't even be attempted, at least not without professional help. Whatever the situation, one thing seems certain: We have to face the hurt before we can begin to heal.
The psalmist speaks of this sad reality with longing. The love God once showed has seemingly disappeared. The close bond the people felt has slipped away. The psalmist's cries are our cries: "How long?" "Will you be angry forever?" "Will you not come back?" The words are plaintive: "Please, can I have another chance?"
Prayer
Lord, I ask forgiveness for the times when I have hurt another. Guide me with your mercy and compassion when I strive to make things right. Amen.