The Breath of the Artist
Like a magician’s wand
the stroke of a tiny paintbrush transforms
this blank canvas into a thing of beauty
you cannot take your eyes away from.
Like a fine wish bringer
a stroke of a wide paintbrush transforms
the brick wall into an interesting mural
expressing hope in the neighborhood.
Like a magic scepter
a stroke of a paint roller transforms
the drywall into a bright and colorful
room that brings comfort for those inside.
If, by the stroke of a paintbrush
transformation is possible, let’s act
as fine hairs assembled, to change our culture
into one less violent and deadly.
Let’s show our faith in God
by turning away from power over
vulnerable children and adults in
public schools and wide-open spaces.
It’s not too late to pray
and act in ways that show we truly
believe that all are beloved children of
God, worthy of a life well lived.
As the breath of our Creator
transformed the chaos into beauty
may we breathe in peace to create safety
and protection for all beings.
Psalm 97
The Lord rules! Let the earth rejoice! Let all the islands celebrate!
2 Clouds and thick darkness surround God whose throne is built on righteousness and justice.
3 Fire proceeds before him, burning up his enemies on every side.
4 God’s lightning lights up the world; the earth sees it and trembles!
5 The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of the whole world!
6 Heaven has proclaimed God’s righteousness, and all nations have seen his glory.
7 All those who worship images, those who are proud of idols, are put to shame. All gods bow down to the Lord!
8 Zion has heard and celebrates, the towns[a] of Judah rejoice, because of your acts of justice, Lord,
9 because you, Lord, are the Most High over all the earth, because you are so superior to all other gods.
10 Those of you who love the Lord, hate evil! God guards the lives of his faithful ones, delivering them from the power of the wicked.
11 Light is planted like seed for the righteous person; joy too for those whose heart is right.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, righteous ones! Give thanks to God’s holy name!
All You Need is God
Psalm 97 is a reminder that God is it! When idolizing our purchases and heroes we sometimes live as though there are many gods. Then something horrific occurs and we tend to think that the bad guys are winning. We live in fear of those who murder, steal, and bully. Driving becomes more problematic as we are affected by those who drive at high rates of speed and intentionally run very red traffic lights. The earth was healing itself when we were stuck at home during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but once again the threat of global warming increases.
However, this Psalm and the whole of scriptures, repeatedly remind us that God is always faithful. The Resurrection reminds us that God will win out in the end!
“The lives of the faithful will be rescued from the hand of the wicked” writes the Psalmist. Whether living or dying, our souls are safe in the Lord.
We pray that you will know the grace of God is upon and within you.
Marta
Rev. Marta Wheeler
To view or download a PDF version of this devotional, click here: Devotional MW 2022-05-25