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Meditation 10: Psalm 52

8/25/2009 8:02:20 PM

Psalm 52

See the one who would not take refuge in God, but trusted in abundant riches... (v. 7)

Some of the readings of the Old Testament can cause us discomfort, especially those that take delight in the destruction of other people. What I see in such readings is the longing we have for the world to be different than it currently is. I also see a very human venting of anger in the face of helplessness.

Every one of us has been at the receiving end of hurt and harm. Every one of us has, in some way, caused hurt or harm to others. The deeper we grow spiritually, the more we’ll become aware of how our interactions and attitudes affect the lives of those around us, and even the larger world.

It can be very disconcerting to have the Heavens hold up a mirror, reflecting our compassion or lack of it. The purpose for the seeing isn’t so we judge ourselves, but to help us become more open to a process of change. When we are able to accept everything about ourselves—what we label good and bad—and love ourselves as we are, we are then in a better position to love others just as they are. And that alone is a giant step in the transformational process.

Ultimately, the only purpose we have in this world is to shape our lives around the purposes of God. We do this best when we intentionally release our need to judge or be cynical, and embrace the light and love flowing from the presence of God. This is the journey, brought into being through every choice we make.

Every person who lives is faced with choices. We can’t control the choices of others; only our own. But we can hold those others in prayer rather than judge or hate, and that—I believe—is the better choice.

Help me this day, God of grace, not to fear evil, but to walk with quiet confidence in you, that the love and compassion within me becomes a positive force for change in this world.