Concentrating on what is important every day

Psalm 61, 62 • Psalm 68:1-20, (21-23), 24-36
Job 40:1; 41:1-11 • Acts 16:6-15 • John 12:9-19

This Morning Reflection was written just following the DNC and RNC Conventions with all the associated drama, claims and warnings. Just before David Jolliffe sent this reflection assignment, I had done some searching for a reading or two that might help me get centered. I came up with Psalms 61 and 62. They gave me some insight and peace. Then, the assignment.

Today, we seem challenged on all sides daily. Do you also see a growing perfect storm brewing composed of an historic, unsolved pandemic, record setting wildfires, storms, unaddressed and ignored climatic changes, and persistent urban demonstrations around police brutality and economic/political disparities, political dissonance and economic challenges? What to do?

The Psalms all tell stories that there have been challenges of this scale or greater before. What we learn as we take some time to decompress and get centered is that consistent and persistent attention to our worship is a balm and an assurance.

Psalm 61 is a song of praise that concludes, “So I will sing praise unto thy name for ever, that I may daily perform my vows.” Take just a few moments to perform your vows. It to me is like yoga or Tai Chi; a release and focus.

Psalm 62 shares the ancient proposal that “In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength and my refuge, is in God.” “Also, unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.” Nothing has changed.

The message is consistent and persistent–focus on your personal connection with God through prayerful discernment and service. For me, I have a lot of work to do.

Stay safe. Be prayerful. Make time for God and You.

Written by Walt Eilers

Walt Eilers looks forward each morning to these Morning Reflections and those of the Society of St. John the Evangelist (SSJE).