Respite in the Midst of Chaos—Psalm 139 Musings

""You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.
Even before a word is on my tongue, O LORD, you know it completely."     Psalm 139:3–4

     Psalm 139 is a profound prayer, inviting God to examine one's soul while crying out for help against enemies and persecutors. I invite you to linger with this cherished psalm for an energizing experience in holy listening. With so many problems in Zimbabwe, this kind of meditation can bring empowering moments of respite in the midst of chaos.

     God's amazing omniscient and omnipresent ways are worthy of prayerful consideration, especially in such a troubled world. Such quiet reflection offers comfort and strength for anyone's restless, stressed and overburdened soul.

     Begin by slow and prayerful reading and rereading of today's verses. Read them silently and/or aloud. Listen closely to the power of the words. These words are easily memorized, and can even be sung and/or quietly chanted through meaningful repetition.

     With these brilliantly simple practices, you might find a word, a phrase, and or perhaps a whole sentence echoing in the inner, portable chapel of your heart as you go about daily activities in your struggle to survive yet another day. You can be empowered with every breath, secure in the knowledge that you are not alone on the path set before you.

     Today I am reminded once again that there is no hiding from the LORD who knows my every thought, unformed and unspoken words, and all my deeds and needs. Even when I am at a lack for words, God knows in advance what I will say. Just as God knows my habits and circumstances, hopes and fears, joys and sorrows-the Holy One knows yours. Our God is amazing.

     Although we are separated by thousands of miles, I am comforted as I pray for you daily, knowing the Omniscient and Omnipresent Amazing One, who is deeply involved and concerned in my life, is likewise involved in your life and your beloved country. I know you are in good hands with the Almighty.

     Such knowledge will not miraculously remove or cure Zimbabwe's problems, but it can provide moments of inner respite and rest for your soul. You can be refreshed and revitalized knowing that God is with you in the chaos.

Prayer: Omniscient and Omnipresent God, bring many unexpected graced moments of divine respite today. Illuminate my path with faith in your presence through these turbulent and chaotic times. You are keenly aware of Zimbabwe's many difficulties and the needs of her people. Provide relief for the suffering and dying, and comfort and daily sustenance for the living. Rebuild this beloved country with a bright future and blessed hope. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
January 17, 2003
Permission is given to freely distribute this reflection throughout Zimbabwe, along with all resources posted on http://soulfoodministry.org.