Listen

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me. Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame; let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.

Psalm 25:1-5

Think

It seems that every time I turn on the TV or read some article online, there is a politician, religious leader, or commentator making some disparaging remark about a person with whom they disagree. Too often the words are mean, violent, and deny the very humanity of the other. There have been times when words like that have been turned my way; from stupid fights in high school to arguing about church with adults, hurtful words have been flung my way and I usually want so very much to strike back.

Then I remember that, like today’s psalm says, the ways we act during conflict may not be God’s ways. While striking back against an enemy might feel good, I suspect God’s way would be a path that shows our enemies that we live differently, a way that shows God’s presence in the world, a sign of love, lived through us. It’s not an easy task, but living in the path of God never is.

Bruce Reyes-Chow

Pray

God, when I am feeling overwhelmed in a world of chaos and struggle, show me, teach me, guide me, and make yourself known so that I may follow your way. Amen.

Go

Go now with open eyes.
Go now with listening ears.
Make your way with the assurance
That God is leading you.
God is providing the signs you need
To see,
To hear,
To find your way.