But God is tender  March 18, 2024

Psalm 103:13 The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.

Litany of Penitence 9

For all false judgments, for prejudice and contempt of others,

And for all uncharitable thoughts and actions toward our neighbors,

Lord, have mercy upon us,

For we have sinned against you.

Oh, merciful Lord …

We desperately need you to teach us your tenderness and compassion. Convict us and heal us. Show us that sin against others is sin against YOU, whom we claim to love.

I’m reading the biography of John Lewis. He taught and profoundly believed that nonviolent resistance required cultivating love for those who sinned against him (like multiple times beating him, bashing in his head, and arresting him dozens of times for simply asking for the most basic of human rights). An incredible example for us. Reminds me of something I heard a long time ago … oh yeah. Matthew 5:11-12. And 43-48.

A song based on The Breastplate of Saint Patrick, by Wendell Kimbrough and Dan Wheeler:

When my work takes me places I don’t want to go Christ before me
And my heart aches with sorrow as I hit the road Christ be with me

When the care of my family takes all that I have Christ within me
When I’m worn and exhausted, ashamed that I’m mad Christ defend me

Refrain:

I rise up today in a strength that is not my own
I’m held by the promise of God that I’m never alone

When I’m tossed to the side and I want to give up Christ beside me
When I’m breaking my back but it’s never enough Christ beside me
When I work hard but someone else gets the reward God’s eyes see me
I ask for promotion and they shut the door God’s ears hear me

When I climb the first steps toward a long-held dream Christ above me
And I leap out in faith and I hope to find wings Christ beneath me