Dark Brightness

I appears fairly clear that there is much trouble in the world. There has just been a very strong cyclone in Fiji. There are worries about the stability of currencies of reserve, such as the US dollar and the Euro. The unemployment rate is high.

Then we are told also to fear things, that may be imagninary, or may be not. The current fear is Global warming. In my life it has been global cooling, over population, Peak Oil, Nuclear war…

The Psalmist acknowledges bad times. He looks forward to the restoration of good times.

Psalm 126

1When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion,we were like those who dream.

2Then our mouth was filled with laughter,and our tongue with shouts of joy;then it was said among the nations,”The LORD has done great things for them.”

3The LORD has done great things for us,and we rejoiced.

4Restore our fortunes, O LORD,like the watercourses in the Negeb.

5May those who sow in tearsreap with shouts of joy.

6Those who go out weeping,bearing the seed for sowing,shall come home with shouts of joy,carrying their sheaves.

via PCUSA – Devotions – Daily readings for Thursday, March 18, 2010.

It is very easy to blame those in power — and when they are making a series of actively damaging laws, I find bitterness, sarcasm and contempt arising. I can no longer pray for those in power, which we are commanded to do. (And Paul was writing about the late Claudian Emperors, who are still infamous).

It may be that he not only prayed for wisdom and right judgment, but also that they repent and be saved.

In good and bad, we are to seek justice, be merciful, and walk with G_d. We are to continue to do good. And Let’s pray for our leaders.

But there is no need to fear. This also shall pass.