When I call, answer me, O God of justice;
from anguish you released me, have mercy and hear me!
You rebel, how long will your hearts be closed,
will you love what is futile and seek what is false?
It is the Lord who grants favours to those whom he loves;
the Lord hears me whenever I call him.
Fear him; do not sin: ponder on your bed and be still
Make justice your sacrifice, and trust in the Lord.
“What can bring us happiness?” many say.
Lift up the light of your face on us, O Lord.
You have put into my heart a greater joy
than they have from abundance of corn and new wine.
I will lie down in peace and sleep comes at once
for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Reflection A Guidepost for the Journey
During difficult times, we often search for comfort and empowerment. Guideposts, whether tangible or metaphorical, can serve as valuable resources in providing guidance and direction on the path. In the epic adventure of The Lord of the Rings the characters embark on a dangerous quest throughout Middle-Earth to destroy the One Ring and save their world. Along the way, they rely on various guideposts that offer hope, direction, and purpose in the face of adversity.
Today’s Psalm stands as a radiant guidepost, reminding us of the timeless message of hope and light amidst darkness and adversity. It demonstrates that, even in our toughest moments, we can triumph through faith by the grace of God.
King David’s story of turmoil, as he fled from his son (which you can read about in 2 Samuel 15 and 16), reflects the twists and turns we encounter in our own lives. David’s heartfelt cries to God, “How many foes rise up against me? You rebel? How long? Will your hearts be closed?” demonstrate his trust in God’s ability to hear and answer his prayers. David’s story reflects the twists of life, but his trust in God’s ability to answer his prayers inspires us.
This Psalm is a reminder that God hears the cries of our hearts in every season of life. The declaration that “The Lord hears me. Whenever I call him” serves as a powerful guidepost for our journey through life. Despite the chaos and pain that surrounds us, we can find hope in David’s unwavering trust in God’s sustaining power.
When David cried out to God, the focus of the Psalm shifts from his enemies to the Lord. This shift leads to a renewed sense of trust and assurance that we too can experience. By trusting in God, we can find safety, peace, and rest even in our darkest hours.
No matter what challenges we face, the light of faith can guide us through the shadows and sustain us along the way.
Prayer
God of sanctuary and refuge.
You hear the cry of our hearts
in times of anguish, pain and fear.
As we dwell in your presence,
speak a word of peace,
Safety and sustenance
as we journey and trust in you. Amen!
