Focus

As you quiet yourself for this brief time, be willing to be open to God in whatever way that may take place.

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Read

Psalm 82 (NRSV)

God has taken his place in the divine council;
in the midst of the gods he holds judgment:
“How long will you judge unjustly
and show partiality to the wicked? Selah
Give justice to the weak and the orphan;
maintain the right of the lowly and the destitute.
Rescue the weak and the needy;
deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”

They have neither knowledge nor understanding,
they walk around in darkness;
all the foundations of the earth are shaken.

I say, “You are gods,
children of the Most High, all of you;
nevertheless, you shall die like mortals,
and fall like any prince.”

Rise up, O God, judge the earth;
for all the nations belong to you!

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Reflect

Just outside the city of Nashville is a small homeless camp on the property of Green Street Church of Christ. Tents and micro homes are scattered behind the wooden fence of this “sanctuary” whose residents each have stories to tell—some heartbreaking and some heartwarming. They are a community that is often considered lowly and destitute…weak and needy. It is easy to succumb to the human weakness of judgment; to look at these people and think of them as less than ourselves. However, it is not our place to judge. The psalmist says to give justice, maintain the rights, rescue, and deliver those who are in need. Only God can judge God’s people. One day God will return to do just that. I am thankful for the Green Street church members, the community, and our fellow Cumberland Presbyterians who step forward with a servant’s heart to provide food, housing, comfort, and love to these people. May they be an example to us all.

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Pray

God, we ask that you give us clear vision to reach out to those who need our care. Lead us to love one another as you love us. Remind us to be your hands here on earth—free of judgement and full of compassion. Amen.

Go with God.