Thursday, May 14, 2020
The Rev. Anne Williamson
Where do turn for support during difficult times?
We have been thinking this week about where we find support in difficult times. I came to Sagamore Creek to record because this is one of the places I find comfort and solace; I find comfort and solace in nature and all that I see in the woods on my daily walks. This week has included a pileated woodpecker hammering away, hawks circling in the sky and a garter snake sunning itself on a log. There has also been an abundance of what I now know to be trout lilies! But I also find solace in the movement of the water The ebb and the flow of the tides remind me, reassure me, that life comes and goes, there are highs and lows.
I also find comfort and solace in the Psalms. The Psalms are the songs of the people of God which have every emotion in them; joy and praise as well as anger and sorrow. I have a few go-to Psalms that support me in the difficult times and offer them to you today.
My current go-to Psalm was the Psalm for this past Sunday, Psalm 31: ‘But I trust in you O Lord, I say “You are my God, my times are in your hands”.’(v.14-15) I have a picture in my office (now at home!) of my ‘ordination verse’ – Psalm 84 v. 5 ‘Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.’ Another favorite is Psalm 16 which talks about having the blessing of a godly inheritance and safe place to be. And I often need the reminder from Psalm 46 v 10: ‘Be still and know that I am God.’
I know a number of verses from various Psalms but I don’t know many whole psalms by heart. When I was a hospice chaplain, I met a woman who did know a number of psalms by heart and they brought her comfort as she faced a life-limiting illness. I am building my collection of memorized Psalms as a result. One of the Psalms I do know by heart speaks of the comfort that comes from the Lord, the Good Shepherd:
The Lord is my shepherd; * I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures *and leads me beside still waters.
He revives my soul * and guides me along right pathways for his Name's sake.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil;
*for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You spread a table before me in the presence of those who trouble me; *
you have anointed my head with oil, and my cup is running over.
Surely your goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, *
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Today I invite you to find those places which bring you comfort and hope in times that are difficult whether that is out in nature or looking at the Psalms and finding one that resonates with you. May you have joy in your day. Blessings.