God is our refuge and strength,
An ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way
And the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
Though its waters roar and foam
And the mountains quake with their surging.
He says, “Be still and know that I am God,
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
The Lord Almighty is with us,
The God of Jacob is our fortress.
- Psalm 46: 1-3,10,11
As Godly Play teachers, we often begin our circle with a song or recitation of Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God.” This simple verse helps the children (and teacher) slow down and find the quiet and stillness we need to hear the voice of God. I find the process very soothing and it almost always gives me chills to hear and feel the silence in our room. The 3, 4 and 5 year olds who entered the room with so much movement and energy are able to slow down and find peace in the quiet. We feel God’s presence as that steadfast fortress that quiets our souls. We are ready to hear God’s Word through our story.
Reading this entire Psalm today, I am reminded that God’s presence is always with us, even when we “fear the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” With the senseless violence in Las Vegas, the death of a beloved musician and the threat of an oncoming storm, it is easy to feel as if the world around us is falling apart. It calls us to ask God the question: why? Instead of asking why, this Psalm encourages us to have faith in God, as He is always with us in these tough times. With all the of the turmoil around us that we cannot change or control, one thing is for certain: “The Lord Almighty is with us, the God of Jacob is our fortress.” So perhaps it would be helpful for us to slow down, be quiet, and be still during these tough times. In the silence we can often be reminded that God is still here.
Musical Reflection Be Still And Know - Travis Greene
Lord, today I ask you to fill me with your Spirit, help me to breathe, and guide me through this day, knowing you are steadfast. Amen.
