Tuesday, April 28
In our country there is a kind of “economic shutdown.” In the hope of mitigating the spread of the coronavirus many governors are shutting down large portions of economic activity. “Experts” are beginning to emerge to offer advice and direction to a confused populace. On national television prominent doctors offer us tips for staying alive and healthy during these emergency times. Not too far behind them are economic “experts” who are telling us how to remain financially secure. We have become a people who are desperately seeking leadership and guidance.
In the midst of our circumstances, the Church quietly and persistently opens up to us God’s Word. Today we read a portion of Psalm 31 that reminds us that we have a loving Father who takes care of us especially in troubled times. As a faithful Shepherd, he never ignores the needs of his flock, and always leads them forward along the path of life (Psalm 31:3-8, 17,21). So we pray:
“Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety. You are my rock and my fortress; for your name’s sake you will lead and guide me.”
Even when other “rocks” on which we have depended begin to shatter, our true Rock remains firm and immovable. At times when the Enemy attacks us, we find refuge in our Stronghold who gives us safety. Our Shepherd is as a might Fortress surrounding us and protecting us from all harm. And he is leading and guiding us confidently along the paths that lead to fullness of life.
It was to this Rock that Jesus in his moment of suffering and defeat called out to from the cross:
“Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O Lord, O faithful God (vs 6)”
And so we say with the Psalmist:
“My trust is in the Lord; I will rejoice and be glad of your mercy. Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your kindness.”
“Experts” come and go. The winds of public opinion and advice shift from day to day. In the midst of all this we enter into prayer and remind ourselves that we have a Rock, a Stronghold, a Shepherd whose voice is steady and true. Because of our faith we are able to “rejoice and be glad” in his loving kindness which he pours upon us daily and steadily as an ever-present “sun.” Even as some of our “idols” are taken away from us, we can rejoice that our hearts are anchored in the true God and in the guidance that he never ceases to provide us.
One of the benefits of having the “busyness” of the earth shut down for a while is that we have more time for prayer, and more time to drink deeply of God’s living Word offered to us through the Church. This is our portion of “daily bread” that God gives us each day to nourish, quiet, and lead us. While it is good to listen to the medical, financial, and political “experts,” it is most important that we listen to the voice of the one who created all “experts”—the source of all wisdom, knowledge, and counsel—whom we look to daily and call our “Abba”—our Father.
In today’s gospel account (John 6:30-35) Jesus reminds us that he is the “Bread of God” sent by heaven to nourish us. We access the Father’s love and help every time we call on his holy name.
“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger” (John 6:35).
