Psalm 71:1-6 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 71:1-6 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1In you, O Lord, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame.
Verse 2In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me and save me.
Verse 3Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.
Verse 4Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel.
Verse 5For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
Verse 6Upon you I have leaned from my birth; it was you who took me from my mother's womb. My praise is continually of you.
Devotion
Many of us, as we grew up, were taught not to think too highly of ourselves, not to be vain or overblown in our self-estimation—or was that just me? What a gift then, that like Jeremiah, the psalmist reminds us of our origins, who it was that formed us and anointed us for ministry, friendship, intimacy, vocation, proclamation, and neighbor love. The psalmist gives voice to our need for rescue when life, ministry, relationships, or truth-telling get hard. In those times we have the privilege and the opportunity of calling on God. Yes, with thanksgiving, but also with the truth of how hard the journey and the work can be, we can bring all of that to God in authenticity, integrity, and frank honesty.
Prayer
Encouraging God, you sustain me with your loving Spirit. When I need courage and strength, you are my source. When I need support and healing, you are my comfort. It stirs my inmost being to consider that I am yours; you made me, and you never leave me. What joy and reassurance. I sing out my gratitude. Amen.
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