Be Still And Know

 

It seems wherever I go these days I hear about our world situation.  The apparent realization that evil and power-control seems to be “winning.”

So this morning I invite you to think — wonder — with me about the very real challenge that faces all of us in this time of the-unfortunate.

The Psalm reading for this Sunday is Ps. 37.  A Psalm puts a challenge before those who strive to live life, in this world, God’s way.

By living the law of love and compassion. In a world where the “wicked” — bullies — find success and wealth to enjoy.

While those who choose to be faithful, to God’s value system. struggle with the idea that God is out of touch with the “real world;” and what it is "really all about" here on earth.

To this very real image of our world today, as well as centuries ago, the Psalmist advises:  “Do not fret.”

Centuries later Jesus advised:  “Do no worry” — “Do not be afraid.”

One commentator asked: “How do you convert the call to live in accord with God’s just view of the world when people witness the wicked prospering?” (Gary W. Charles)

Those who are enjoying life, and wealth, success and power???

How does that compute in your over all worldview?

Some how, in the presence of the "real worldview" God’s promises tend to blur.  Get deleted by the “realistic” way -- the norm -- of being.

God's view is ultimately unconvincing and unrealistic.

⁹ For the wicked shall be cut off,
   but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.

In other words, those who are wick will eventually “get their due.’

True story:

I was sitting with a parishioner, one evening, who was experiencing such wickedness in his work place.

He was angry, as well as envious.  He was hurt, and yes maybe a little afraid. 

In my pastoral way I tried to talk to him about the ideas the Psalmist was saying in Psalm 37.

He sat for some moments.  Then he looked at me and said “I’d like to see him get his due right now.  Not later.”

I am almost positive that most people have felt the same way at one time or another. I certainly have; and my list is much to long to mention here.

So I am thinking, at least in my heart, I choose to suck-it-up and trust that God’s ways are the best ways.  Whether I like it or not.

That God knows best; and is very aware of what is happening in the world that we have no idea about.

I pray that one day this messy-not-so-perfect-world will find a peaceful balance .  

A place of honest harmony. 

A place of God’s kindness and mercy..

So the challenge is this:

⁷ Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him;
   do not fret over those who prosper in their way,
   over those who carry out evil devices. 

⁸ Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath.
   Do not fret—it leads only to evil.

What are the wonderings of your mind?

¹ Do not fret because of the wicked;
   do not be envious of wrongdoers,
² for they will soon fade like the grass,
   and wither like the green herb. 

³ Trust in the Lord, and do good;
   so you will live in the land, and enjoy security.
⁴ Take delight in the Lord,
   and he will give you the desires of your heart. 

⁵ Commit your way to the Lord;
   trust in him, and he will act.
⁶ He will make your vindication shine like the light,
   and the justice of your cause like the noonday. 

⁷ Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him;
   do not fret over those who prosper in their way,
   over those who carry out evil devices. 

⁸ Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath.
   Do not fret—it leads only to evil.
⁹ For the wicked shall be cut off,
   but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land. 

¹⁰ Yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more;
   though you look diligently for their place, they will not    be there.
¹¹ But the meek shall inherit the land,
   and delight in abundant prosperity. ….

³⁹ The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord;
   he is their refuge in the time of trouble.
⁴⁰ The Lord helps them and rescues them;
   he rescues them from the wicked, and saves them,
   because they take refuge in him. (Ps. 37)