January 23, 2015--Silence

Psalm 62:5-12

⁵For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him.
⁶He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
⁷On God rests my deliverance and my honor; my mighty rock, my refuge is in God.
⁸Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. (Selah)
⁹Those of low estate are but a breath, those of high estate are a delusion; in the balances they go up; they are together lighter than a breath.
¹⁰Put no confidence in extortion, and set no vain hopes on robbery; if riches increase, do not set your heart on them.
¹¹Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God,

¹²and steadfast love belongs to you, O Lord. For you repay to all according to their work.

I really must be into the Psalms right now.  When I do my devotions, they are what speak to me right now.  

This is truly a psalm of thanksgiving and praise.  This psalm brings hope, with the affirmation that God alone has the power.  How often we can lose trust that God is really in charge.  I think I have said this before, I am one who often believes if I just work harder and longer, things will get better.  NO—okay, that is true sometimes, and not just for me.  But sometimes we need to take breaks, to wait in silence—something else I struggle with, I always feel more relaxed with a little noise.  

As I write this morning, I prepare for one of those times when in the past has been a time of renewal.  I will be attending a workshop on a cruise, yep—you read that right.  Although the cruise is on Preaching during Lent, I also use the time by the pool, on the balcony, just listening, taking notes, vision and plan for ministry-both the one I share with Ascension and the ministry of my own life.  

I am anxious, I always am when I leave.  What will happen while I’m gone?  What if something happens while I’m gone?  Should I go?  Maybe I should stay home in case… 
As I leave, my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.

I will write the devotions for the week ahead, and post them.  I plan on disconnecting from technology while out at sea (mostly because it costs money and because it will be a learning experience).

Let us pray:  Lord God, you are our rock and fortress and our hope is in you.  Help us trust in your power, letting go when we need to and trusting that you will lead and guide.  In you alone, I put my trust.  You are my strength and shield.  Amen

Listen to the song below, just listen…..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mPrqltkJyw

PS—Selah is found in many psalms.  It is likely a place where the congregation would have had a response of an interlude.  Try pausing for reflection when you read Psalms with “selah.”