The God of Glory Thunders

This meditation is based on a passage for September 6, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Psalm 29

Reflection and Question: Imagine yourself among a people who have no scientific explanation for the forces of a great storm with its thunder, lightening and blowing rain. Now imagine the audacity of the people of Israel who conceived of those powers, belonging to God, being directed toward their wellbeing. God not only sits over the flood but also in the temple in Jerusalem as King. When the psalmist asks God to give strength to the people, it is this strength of the storm that is being requested and the outcome desired is peace. For what purpose do you ask God for God’s strength to be yours?

Prayer: The voice of Love is heard in every storm, and strips the ego bare;
And in their hearts all cry, “Glory!”
The Beloved lives in our hearts; Love dwells with us forever.
May Love give strength to all people! May Love bless all nations with peace!
(Nan Merrill, Psalms for Praying, p. 51)