Tucked Away

Psalm 57  New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

To the leader: Do Not Destroy. Of David. A Miktam, when he fled from Saul, in the cave.

Be merciful to me, O God; be merciful to me,
for in you my soul takes refuge;
in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge,
until the destroying storms pass by.
I cry to God Most High,
to God who fulfills his purpose for me.
He will send from heaven and save me;
he will put to shame those who trample on me. Selah
God will send forth his steadfast love and his faithfulness.

I lie down among lions
that greedily devour human prey;
their teeth are spears and arrows,
their tongues sharp swords.

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens.
Let your glory be over all the earth.

They set a net for my steps;
my soul was bowed down.
They dug a pit in my path,
but they have fallen into it themselves. Selah
My heart is steadfast, O God;
my heart is steadfast.
I will sing and make melody.
Awake, my soul!
Awake, O harp and lyre!
I will awake the dawn.
I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples;
I will sing praises to you among the nations.
For your steadfast love is as high as the heavens;
your faithfulness extends to the clouds.

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens.
Let your glory be over all the earth.

Reflection

     I pray that you will never have to remember this psalm, but I write this just in case you might. I pray that it will remain tucked away in your memory should you ever find yourself fearing for your life or in an extremely difficult time or scenario. Remember that you are tucked away under God's wings as this  beautiful psalm describes. Find the hope that is deep in your heart, where you know God is true, good and right when everything else is wrong. In the midst of a dark time, rejoice and give praises to God because you are so fully and deeply protected and loved forever. I pray that you will find yourself repeating and sinking into the lectio divina of "in the shadow of God's wings,...in the shadow of God's wings,..."

Great God,

We pray for your ultimate peace in difficult times. When things are calm and comfortable, let us study your Word carefully so that we may remember it always. Guide us also to work for justice and peace for all of our siblings. Let us work so that none may struggle without hope. In your Great Name, we pray. Amen.

**This made me think of this hymn (ELW 613 - "Thy Holy Wings") performed beautifully here.