ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
October 29, 2020
Scripture: Psalm 31:23
Love the Lord, all you his saints. The Lord preserves the faithful, but abundantly repays the one who acts haughtily.
Thought for the Day: We often see subtle and not so subtle contrasts within the Psalms. In this case, there are the saints, those who are faithful, as compared to those who are haughty. This latter group, the haughty or arrogant, will get its reward… which is ultimately to find oneself alone. The saints, by contrast, are humble and concerned about the other. Their reward is a healthy and life-giving community. Yet humility not only creates a relationship with others, but also with God. The author of this Psalm talks about taking refuge in the Lord, trusting the Lord, being heard by the Lord and rejoicing in the Lord. It is hard to have a relationship with God if a person is haughty, but those who are able to set aside their egos will find intimacy with God. Probably the most common attribute among the saints is that of humility, an attribute that allowed these amazing witnesses to embody the core teachings of Jesus – love, mercy, kindness, peace, service and generosity.
Prayer: For the sake of your kingdom vision, Kind and Generous God, I seek to reduce my ego while pursuing a more humble spirit. It is not always easy, yet I turn to Jesus who provides me a true example. Amen.
