Yet now you have cast us off and put us in disgrace, and you go not forth with our armies.
You have let us be driven back by our foes; those who hated us plundered us at will.
Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.
Our responsorial psalm today reminds us of the gracious kindness of our God. This doctrine proves itself to be unacceptable to just about everyone who supposes they should be able to manage on their own. They think, or "feel," that they can attain virtue, excellence, and success by simple will power.
One evening several years ago, during the early evening TV news, they reported on a children's chess tournament. One boy captured hearts as he admitted with frank astonishment, "I tried and tried as hard as I could, and I lost."
Yeah, kid, I know the feeling.
We were created to know, love, and serve God in this world, and be with him in the next; but not to save ourselves by will power, physical strength, mental ability, conquest, or persistence. Nor can we prove our worth or virtue to God's satisfaction, although we might win the esteem of everyone on Earth.
Our greatest strength is our willingness to let God be God, along with the willingness to be directed in this life toward our salvation. Jesus has shown us the way, which is obedience. He has given us the Holy Spirit who empowers us to turn away from evil -- regardless of its fascination -- and to act rightly, love justice, and walk humbly with our God. But that willingness and zealous obedience cannot come to those who will not turn away from evil and learn to do God's will. (Psalm 34:15; 1 Peter 3:11: Isaiah 1:16)
The medieval "Cloud of Unknowing" tells us that God cannot resist the helpless soul who turns to Him. The anonymous author knew the pathos of those who pray earnestly, and fail to turn their hearts, minds, thoughts, and emotions to the love of God. Hopelessly distracted, we can only say, "Help me, God! I can't do it."
Very often, as we collapse in utter despair, we find deep reassurance.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.