The Grace of the Law

AM Psalm 75, 76 • PM Psalm 23, 27
Ezra 9:1-15 • Rev. 17:1-14 • Matt. 14:22-36

The readings today are hard for me. I grew up in a judgy religious group (and then thought for a while that I would solve the problem by judging them back). So today I must first notice my reaction to all this divine anger and power to destroy. On my first time through these passages, that is my inner work. I take a breath—and then another. Eventually I hear something deeper and more resonant.

My eyes adjust and I realize (duh) these passages were not written to terrify sensitive children or anxious people just trying to get through a day. They were written to leaders and warriors who think highly of themselves or belittle those suffering around them. Maybe, I start to think, I would be happy to see more biblical justice and destruction. Fortunately, there is more.

I drop down into this resonant place again wondering about the ways my own petty arrogance (and desperation to determine my life) affects those around me—and prevents me from being here and understanding what is needed—or a next step to take. As a craftsman, I had to learn to respect the wood and listen to the metal. It took a while. Humbly listening to the advice of old books and basic rules has saved my fingers and sped along my learning. But today God calls me to humility and attention in all of my life—and offers good food and comfort if I will take a seat at this table. This is harder and more personal. And, I’m thinking, at least as interesting.

Written by David Orth

Sculptor with a background in philosophy & kayaking. Moved with wife Sarah and two annoyed cats to Fayetteville in 2020.