Ordinary Time

Pause

How do we need to be healed?

For our physical selves and in our inmost hearts–

For our individual lives and in our families–

For our schools, neighborhoods, and communities–

For our countries and across continents–

From the depths of the ocean to the moon and back–

We pray:

God, show us mercy.

Listen

When the Lord changed Zion’s circumstances for the better, it was like we had been dreaming. Our mouths were suddenly filled with laughter; our tongues were filled with joyful shouts. It was even said, at that time, among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them!” Yes, the Lord has done great things for us, and we are overjoyed.

Psalm 126:1-3

Think

The prophet Jeremiah wrote that the people of God would sing with joy (Jer. 31:7). The book of Psalms was, and is, the songbook. The psalmist – the poet, the lyricist – put words to God’s work, God’s presence, God’s promises, so that the people of faith could sing joyfully, together.

But the book of Psalms isn’t all Happily Ever After, calm waters and smooth roads. Life includes disappointment, fear, anger, loneliness, and brokenness as well as comfort, hope, peace, community, and healing. The psalmist put all those emotions – all that reality – into the words of songs of faith. Real life includes it all.

And God’s healing includes it all. God’s healing changes bad into good so dramatically, so completely, that it may seem unreal. Unbelievable. A dream come true for those who experience it, and a wonder to those who witness it.

A miracle. And we are overjoyed.

Nikki Finkelstein-Blair

Pray

You have done great things, God. And you are at work now, doing great things all around me. Let me witness your healing, and let me experience your healing, so I can share in wonder and in joy. Amen.

Go

Follow Jesus’ invitation: Seek, and find mercy.

Ask, and share in healing.

Gather, and join in praise.

Go, and be overjoyed.

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