It's a very different experience to be challenged to do something that you normally do, but in a new setting. I'm at seminary this week, in a class about emerging/young adulthood, and we were challenged for devotions this morning to rewrite a Psalm. Any Psalm. For those of you who have biblical knowledge, you know that there are 150 Psalms, so it was no easy feat to choose one.
I pulled up Psalm 61, because it speaks to waiting. To wondering. To pain, comfort, and resilience.
61:1 Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer; 2 from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I, 3 for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy. 4 Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings! Selah 5 For you, O God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name. 6 Prolong the life of the king; may his years endure to all generations! 7 May he be enthroned forever before God; appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him! 8 So will I ever sing praises to your name, as I perform my vows day after day. (English Standard Version).
God, are you listening?
I'm crying out to you, even when I feel small and insignificant.
Reach out to me, and draw me near to you.
You have always been my comfort and hidden me from the sun in the shadow of your wing.
Oh, how I long to stay in that place forever.
Let me live in the coolness of your shade.
You have heard me when I cried out,
as you heard and cared for those who came before me. I am not alone.
God, may you live forever in this way,
that you would reach out to all generations;
Watch over us all with passion and faithfulness, abiding by us in times of trial.
I have followed you then, and I will follow you now, in song, word, and deed.
