Lent Week Five—Monday
Psalm 35 Jeremiah 24:1-10 Romans 9:19-33 John 9:1-17
I write this as we approach Lenten season, and I am contemplating what to give up. Usually a food item like chocolate, chips, cheese or a beverage like alcohol or diet coke. Many of my friends have chosen to stay off social media during Lent, and I’m considering this as well.
Many years ago, when my children were approaching the age to get phones, I chose to get on social media to understand the details further. Since then, I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to keep up with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors. While I’ve enjoyed most of it, I’ve been in some groups that were intending to be supportive, and conversations have turned out to be anything but supportive.
Psalm 35 was written by David, possibly when he was being hunted by Saul. This psalm is a prayer to God for help against those who try to inflict injury for no reason. As I read this, I can’t help but relate his struggles to some tribulations of current day life situations. David’s disappointment, anxiety and fear are evident as he pleads with the LORD to “fight against those who fight against” him. For those who sought David’s life, were ruthless witnesses, and maliciously mocked him, he prayed to the LORD to not be silent, to rise to his defense and to vindicate him in the LORD’s righteousness. Today when communication is exponentially faster and when it is unkind, I hope you find a moment to read Psalm 35 and find solace. When others are unjust, even when we do good to them, we can appeal to God who is always just.
-Brad and Lynn Massad
The Carpenter's Nail 