Today’s scripture: Psalm 39 (NRSV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Julie Benson):
Q: Who are God’s children?
On the surface, this seems like an easy question to answer:
A: We are all God’s children.
But I think we often struggle — or forget — to see others as God’s own special and unique creations.
Several years ago I crossed the border into Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, spending a few hours strolling down the streets and taking in the city. I was constantly hounded by people selling their wares: A man pushing into me trying to sell a gold chain, a woman crying up to me from the edge of the sidewalk to buy her baskets, a child following me for over a block with one hand extended and the other hand draped with bracelets.
The sidewalks were cram-packed with vendors making it difficult to travel through. Store fronts and signs were shabby and in disrepair. Fuse boxes and electrical wiring were dangerously exposed. A restaurant window proudly displayed a spread-eagle carcass of a goat alongside of its filet-style wrapped intestines.
As I walk around, it is a challenge for me to understand this different culture. I am deeply settled into my own ideals and standards for living — and what’s familiar often seems to be what’s “right”.
But God has made life a little more interesting than that, be it in another country or right here at home. What about:
- The homeless man begging on the corner
- The disabled war veteran, lonely and confused
- The shock jock on the radio
- The fundamentalist preacher calling down fire and brimstone
- The prostitute working the street
- The prisoner convicted of homicide
Like David, I think we start to feel self-righteous and place judgment on those who are not following the path that may seem familiar, right, or true to us. But regardless of their choices or circumstances, one fact remains: God created each one in his or her uniqueness.
Thought for the day: We don’t have to agree with or understand one another. We do, however, need to remember that God still loves each one of God’s children — and we should do the same!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.