Scripture: Psalm 9:18-19
For the needy shall not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the poor perish forever. Rise up, O Lord! Do not let mortals prevail; let the nations be judged before you.
Thought for the Day: I am a fan of the movie Kingdom of Heaven (staring Orlando Bloom and Liam Neeson), and I was watching it again last night. One of the characters referred to as Hospitaller says to Balian, “I put no stock in religion. By the word religion I have seen the lunacy of fanatics of every denomination be called the will of god. I have seen too much religion in the eyes of too many murderers. Holiness is in right action, and courage on behalf of those who cannot defend themselves, and goodness…” These words set centuries ago have great relevance in our current situation. Some may believe that religion will be the source of the world’s destruction, and they may be right. Though I may be a tad naive, I tend to think the acts of kindness and love inspired by God and seen among those who choose to follow in the ways of this God will be the world’s saving grace.
Prayer: Give me hope amidst the pessimism, O God, and make within me an attitude that celebrates grace-filled works over blind ideology. Amen.
