Cry Out

Listen, God, I'm calling at the top of my lungs:
      "Be good to me! Answer me!"
   When my heart whispered, "Seek God,"
      my whole being replied,
   "I'm seeking him!"
      Don't hide from me now!
Psalm 27:7-9 (The Message)

For years I have avoided Memphis local news because it is simply too depressing and frightening at times. It is difficult to hide from the pain of this world. But it can be even more difficult to hide from the pain in our own lives. What can we do in such times?

Sometimes the first step in faith is to simply cry out. It has often been said that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is the God that answers the cries of the people. With that knowledge, what could possibly keep us from repeating this psalm in our darkest hours? 

I have found that in my journey, it’s not pride or doubt that keeps my lips silent in such times.  It’s deeper than that. It’s fear. That haunting question that, amid the turmoil, asks, “What if I cry out to God with all that I am… and God doesn’t respond?” Such a silly question in the light of day, right! But it is in the absence of light that we feel helpless and vulnerable. 

There is so much pain and suffering in this world. Oppression, injustice, hunger, greed, and war; these are the times in which we live. As people living the Way of Christ, we should be able to proclaim God’s power over this present darkness. Your challenge today is to release your control over your own struggles.  Stop being so strong against your fears and cry out to God. Experience firsthand God’s grace and power.  In your weakness God’s strength is revealed. The world needs this kind of strength.

See you Sunday,
Missy