Goodness

Psalm 145

8The LORD is gracious and merciful,

slow to anger and abounding in mercy.^f

9The LORD is good to all,

compassionate toward all your works.^g

 

Psalm 19

 

8The law of the LORD is perfect,

refreshing the soul.

The decree of the LORD is trustworthy,

giving wisdom to the simple.^b

9The precepts of the LORD are right,

rejoicing the heart.

The command of the LORD is clear,

enlightening the eye.

10The fear of the LORD is pure,

enduring forever.

The statutes of the LORD are true,

all of them just;

11More desirable than gold,

than a hoard of purest gold,

Sweeter also than honey

or drippings from the comb.^c

 

These Psalms really say everything for one who is a believer.  The LORD God, who made everything and is still in control, has showered us with so many gifts that they are countless.  I just look at the wonders of the world and the human body, especially after the last three months of illness, and cannot help but be amazed.  I have a really hard time wondering how anyone can say that there is not someone above all of this who set it all into motion - who created this complex universe.  How everything works in the body is simply amazing.  And we still know so little about it all.

 

The quality of pride cause so many of us to believe that we are in charge of everything.  But when you step outside and look up, especially here in the rural parts of the world, you can see just how insignificant each of us are.  How can anyone not be humbled by that experience.?!

 

Much of the problems in our country, with Congress, state legislatures, administrations, police, citizens, has to do with this one obsessive quality - and its relative envy.  Pride means we are totally in control and envy means that we are really worried about someone else having more power and being in control.  If we could all realize just how little we are, recognize that the LORD God is really in control, and just step back one or two steps, much could begin to heal.

 

This may sound rather simplistic to the sophisticated person, but if each person would just begin this process, wouldn't it begin to spread.  Look how the Church began in the first place.  Twelve guys went out and began to tell about their experience with Jesus of Nazareth.  Why couldn't we begin this process again.  Re-commit ourselves to the Jesus Way and begin to broadcast it to everyone who we meet.  Wouldn't that humility and service catch on?  I think so.  Isn't is worth trying?  Sure couldn't hurt.  Look how bad everything is right now.  Maybe this is just the ticket to a different society.

 

Again, recognize our humble origins, the nature of our sinful behavior, repent and believe in the original message of Jesus and just start over.  I think that is what Pope Francis is trying to get us to do.

 

So, why don't we just try it?!!!