What struck me most about today’s readings was the Responsorial Psalm. It speaks of gratitude for God’s deliverance, and we should all be grateful for that. The text also provides several examples of how we can benefit from God’s grace and power and be rescued.
You Drew Me Clear
The Lord can remove us from situations, like being drawn safely from an angry mob or a surging crowd. By doing so, he will not let the enemy rejoice over us as we are trampled, like many people are, both physically and emotionally.
The Enemy will not stand over us, rejoicing at our failures, like a heavy-weight boxing champion staring down at the knockout victim on the canvas, arms raised high in triumph. These could be escapes from social situations, as well, when we are surrounded by non-believers or hostile actors.
You Kept Me Away from Pit-Bound People
God can keep us from going to The Pit, where many people are bound to go. This is another reference to a crowd moving somewhere we should not be going. Let us remember to swim against the secular tide.
You May Be Angry for a Moment, but…
Like any Father, God may become angry with us. I am not sure if that is theologically correct, as God is perfect, but in my mind, He can get angry. The Psalm reassures us that the anger will last but a moment and will be followed by a lifetime of goodwill. I think we could all live with that.
Be My Helper
We can ask God to be our Helper. The Holy Spirit is also sent to be our helper. All we need to do is ask for help.
Change My Mourning to Dancing
God can turn moments of sadness to gladness. Life is not about being glad all the time, but we certainly can appreciate that sadness will also not to be with us all the time. I am not much of a dancer, but I understand why people want to dance when they are happy.
I would like to wish a Happy Summer to the GVM Universe. About a dozen GVM writers and their families gathered for a day on the lake and a cookout this past Sunday afternoon in Zebulon, North Carolina. Father Maurice joined us by video call, and Father Joshua blessed our meal. The burgers did not look so great by the time I finished grilling them, but they tasted good. Nobody went home hungry, and we even had locally grown fresh peaches. Thanks to ALL who write and read and contribute to GVM…we appreciate you all.
Remain Blessed.
[Readings for Sunday Week 13: Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24; 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15; Mark 5:21-43 or 5:21-24, 35b-43]
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