A few months ago I saw this construction sign on my way to help a friend: Repairs underway. Expect delays. It reminds me that I don’t always have or need the answer, but to patiently wait for God. Although a friend or loved one may be hurting, and my instinct is to fix their problems, this is usually not the best choice. The times of greatest growth and joy in my life have come from climbing out of the deepest pits; a truth I discovered years later. So when I offer help, and I don’t know what to pray for, I listen with all my heart and pray that God will take over.
When I started back to work a few days ago after the new year, I began my daily morning ritual of watering my fountain. The watering can had a bit of water, but not enough for the fountain to operate smoothly. It reacted by sputtering at me. I went to retrieve the extra stash of distilled water, but it must have been used up before the holidays, so my day didn’t begin well. Constantly hearing the fountain’s silence, the feeling sat with me all day long. But the emptiness was deeper than that. I have been allowing other things to get in the way of my time with God. Always when I take time to listen, God speaks to me through words, art, music, people, cleaning, baking…..even the fountain in my office. Today I needed a word from God, so I turned to today’s lectionary and the following Psalm spoke to me.
Morning Psalm 20 The LORD answer you in the day of trouble! The name of the God of Jacob protect you! May he send you help from the sanctuary, and give you support from Zion. May he remember all your offerings, and regard with favor your burnt sacrifices. May he grant your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans. May we shout for joy over your victory, and in the name of our God set up our banners. May the LORD fulfill all your petitions. Now I know that the LORD will help his anointed; he will answer him from his holy heaven with mighty victories by his right hand. Some take pride in chariots, and some in horses, but our pride is in the name of the LORD our God. They will collapse and fall, but we shall rise and stand upright. Give victory to the king, O LORD; answer us when we call.
Bread for the Journey 
Thank you for reminding me to be patient with the glitches. We have been having one problem after another – all technology related – today and we have a retreat that begins tonight for our novices. So, instead of allowing myself to get caught up in frustration, I will try to relax into the moment and try to see what God has to offer.
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Thank you, Janis. You and your community are always in my prayers.
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Anne,
This really hit home today. I forwarded it to my daughter and son-in-law who are dealing with his father’s recent brain cancer diagnosis.
The Psalm is a reminder of the faith we have that God is in charge and listens to our prayers.
They will find strength in this passage.
Thank you –
Teresa
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Thank you for sharing your story, Teresa. This season more than ever I have been reminded of the struggles we all face and how important it is to be there for each other. My prayers are with you and your family.
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Thank you, Anne.
Prayer is certainly needed.
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