Friday, April 3

This post was provided by Katie Schutzkus

 

I wanted to suggest Psalm 27 as a reflection for people in times of despair.

Also, the song "Be Near Me Still" by Jodi Penner has always helped me calm down and trust in God.

 

"Be Near Me Still" by Jodi Penner

 

Psalm 27

(New American Bible, Revised Edition)

The LORD is my light and my salvation;

whom should I fear?

The LORD is my life’s refuge;

of whom should I be afraid?

 

When evildoers come at me

to devour my flesh,

These my enemies and foes

themselves stumble and fall.

 

Though an army encamp against me,

my heart does not fear;

Though war be waged against me,

even then do I trust.

 

One thing I ask of the LORD;

this I seek:

To dwell in the LORD’s house

all the days of my life,

To gaze on the LORD’s beauty,

to visit his temple.

 

For God will hide me in his shelter

in time of trouble,

He will conceal me in the cover of his tent;

and set me high upon a rock.

 

Even now my head is held high

above my enemies on every side!

I will offer in his tent

sacrifices with shouts of joy;

I will sing and chant praise to the LORD.

 

Hear my voice, LORD, when I call;

have mercy on me and answer me.

“Come,” says my heart, “seek his face”;*

your face, LORD, do I seek!

 

Do not hide your face from me;

do not repel your servant in anger.

You are my salvation; do not cast me off;

do not forsake me, God my savior!

 

Even if my father and mother forsake me,

the LORD will take me in.

 

LORD, show me your way;

lead me on a level path

because of my enemies.

 

Do not abandon me to the desire of my foes;

malicious and lying witnesses have risen against me.

 

I believe I shall see the LORD’s goodness

in the land of the living.

 

Wait for the LORD, take courage;

be stouthearted, wait for the LORD!