Ordinary Time

Pause

We can never know everything that our days will hold –

But we can know that God will be with us.

Take a breath.

Let God prepare you for the unknown.

Listen

Hurry, God, to deliver me; hurry, Lord, to help me! Let those who seek my life be ashamed and humiliated! Let them fall back and be disgraced— those people who delight in my downfall! Let those who say, “Aha! Aha!” stop because of their shameful behavior. But let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you, and let those who love your saving help say again and again: “God is great!” But me? I’m poor and needy. Hurry to me, God! You are my helper and my deliverer. Oh, Lord, don’t delay!

Psalm 70

Think

The writer of today’s psalm wants help. Not in a week, or a year, but as soon as possible. “Hurry, God, to deliver me; hurry, Lord, to help me!” (Psalm 70:1). Have you ever felt like that? Like you needed God’s attention right at the very moment of your prayer? If so, you’re in good company. I can imagine the psalm writer waving their hands dramatically in the air. Look at me, God, look at me! 

Sometimes we can feel silly or selfish asking for help – but Scripture gives us plenty examples, like this one, of people doing just that. Your troubles are not too small for God! The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you are allowed to ask for help. Look for help from those around you, and look for the help of God.

Megan McDermott

Pray

God, take away every bit of embarrassment, pride, or shame that keeps me from crying your name. Show me resources beyond myself to get through difficult times. Show me your strength. Amen.

Go

Are you ready to love? Serve? Give? To seek joy in tough moments?

Go, and find out.