Goodness of God

The Christian Community Comes Alive
Seeds of New Growth

Thessalonica, Beroea, and Athens

Psalm 33:13-22  The Message

^13-15 From high in the skies God looks around,
    he sees all Adam’s brood.
From where he sits
    he overlooks all us earth-dwellers.
He has shaped each person in turn;
    now he watches everything we do.

^16-17 No king succeeds with a big army alone,
    no warrior wins by brute strength.
Horsepower is not the answer;
    no one gets by on muscle alone.

^18-19 Watch this: God’s eye is on those who respect him,
    the ones who are looking for his love.
He’s ready to come to their rescue in bad times;
    in lean times he keeps body and soul together.

^20-22 We’re depending on God;
    he’s everything we need.
What’s more, our hearts brim with joy
    since we’ve taken for our own his holy name.
Love us, God, with all you’ve got—
    that’s what we’re depending on.

For Reflection 

Look around at the world today. Because of efficient communication, we know more about how all of us behave and we know it instantly,  We see people ennobled by the challenges they face.  We see people at their worst, self absorbed, even barbarian, selves. We observe governing systems that challenge our sense of humanity, poverty so extreme and persistent tyranny.

Extreme poverty, injustice, and retributive violence marks the rejection of God.  And yet, God forgives.

How does God come to the rescue of those who know God?  God has defined justice and compassion.  God empowers those who know God to work for justice and compassionate relationships. Having removed the threat of death, God offers a partnership in God's mission of peace making. Have we the radical trust in God to become a partner in our salvation?

Pray

Pray for radical trust in God.  Pray for the courage to follow Christ.  Pray all people who work for a just and compassionate world.