Rest.

So many people I know are just tired. Exhausted. Worn out by the social, political or economic drama that just never seems to take a breath. Worn out by sickness or family dysfunction. Worn out by holding down several jobs. Worn out by endless news of scandals. Worn out by the inhuman frenetic pace of life.

My hiding place? The psalms. I’m so grateful for them. They provide a sacred space to inhabit, a faithful companion for the journey, a refuge and a shelter from the storms of life. Jesus prayed the psalms incessantly, and from them he learned how to speak with and hear the voice of his Father. Even from the Cross.

Psalm 61 has long been a special sanctuary for me when I’m weary…

In God alone is my soul at rest;
my salvation comes from him.
He alone is my rock, my salvation,
my fortress; never shall I falter.

How long will you all attack one man
to break him down,
as though he were a tottering wall,
or a tumbling fence?

Their plan is only to bring down;
they take pleasure in lies.
With their mouth they utter blessing,
but in their heart they curse.

In God alone be at rest, my soul,
for my hope is from him.
He alone is my rock, my salvation,
my fortress; never shall I falter.

In God is my salvation and glory,
my rock of strength;
in God is my refuge.

Trust him at all times, O people.
Pour out your hearts before him,
for God is our refuge.

The sons of men are a breath,
an illusion, the sons of men.
Placed in the scales, they rise;
they all weigh less than a breath.

Do not put your trust in oppression,
nor vain hopes on plunder.
Even if riches increase,
set not your heart on them.

For God has said only one thing;
only two have I heard:
that to God alone belongs power,
and to you, Lord, merciful love;
and that you repay each man
according to his deeds.