As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God? My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me continually, “Where is your God?” These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I went with the throng, and led them in procession to the house of God, with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.
- Psalm 42:1-7
We are living in unprecedented times. Everything we have known as “normal” is no longer. Social unrest, political unrest, and a worldwide pandemic. The words of Psalm 42 might never have been more appropriate. We long for normalcy; we long for healing; we long for calm; we long for peace; we long for the flowing streams that only God can provide. And we ask, when shall we behold the face of God?
My friends, on this eve of the Inauguration, we simply pray and ask God for peace. Peace, as we move forward in the coming days, months and year. Peace for those who have lost loved ones in this pandemic. Peace for those who are struggling to have their voices heard; peace for those seeking justice; and peace in our hearts.
Musical Reflection - Deep Peace - John Rutter, Performed by Libera
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen. - Prayer For Peace from the Book of Common Prayer
