Scripture: Psalm 33
“Our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.” (Psalm 33:21–22)
Sometimes I question God. How did God, who “loves righteousness and justice,” allow a perfect creation to become such a mess? Why has God allowed us to foul our environment, perhaps to the point that it cannot be recovered? Why do so many children suffer hunger and disease? Why doesn’t God, who “frustrates the plans of the people,” smack down those who use religion to murder others in wars they believe are inspired, or at least approved, by God?
When I was a child, I was too immature to question. During my youth and young adult years, I didn’t think about God, so I had no need to question. Only as I have lived and experienced grief and disappointments and sorrow and sadness and happiness and comfort and joy, only after I have known grace and mercy, do I question.
I don’t always have answers, but I know that when I am distant from God I feel as if I am in a strange, dark place with no map or directions to find a way out. And I know that when I am open to God’s presence through prayer and the community of others, my heart rejoices.
Prayer
Gracious God, as we wait in the darkness for the Light, your Son, may we remember you are an awesome God and that you are in control. Let the answers to our questions and even our doubts be hope and trust in your faithfulness. Amen.
Pamela Burdine, associate for communications and resources
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance
Compassion, Peace and Justice
General Assembly Mission Council, PC(USA)
Louisville, Kentucky
Order Proclaiming the Good News of God's Peace.