Scripture: Psalm 48:8-10
Just like we had heard, now we’ve seen it for ourselves in the city of the LORD of heavenly forces, in the city of our God. May God make it secure forever! We dwell on your faithful love, God, in your temple. Your praise, God, just like your reputation, extends to the far corners of the earth. Your strong hand is filled with righteousness.
Thought for the Day: “Secure forever” is a powerful phrase, and it is the great longing of all people. Of course in the world today, security for one group of people or a nation can create a sense of insecurity for others. It is complicated, and then you add those whose real agenda – though hidden – is driven by greed, a hunger for power or a blind narcissism. Many such folks are so good at keeping their agendas hidden that the most vulnerable flock to the high ideals of the rhetoric without realizing how they are being used. Notice how the Psalmist speaks of dwelling on God’s faithful love – this is the idea of reflecting on and being a reflection of this faithful love. Such love is sacrificial and willing to suffer. That’s not language most human beings are willing to use when speaking of security, but those who find security in God are able to better perceive the destructive agendas that are masked as godly or righteous. May those of us who have reflect upon and been called to be a reflection of God’s love continue to work for the security of all people, even if it requires some sacrifice on our side. It is the way of Jesus.
Prayer: For more and more to know peace and feel secure, O Creator of All, guide my life that I might be a true reflection of your faithful love. Amen.
