Often we focus our attention on the Gospel readings for Sundays and perhaps using the Epistle and Old Testament readings as periphery or context.
As we all know and are probably tired or frustrated of hearing this: 2020 has been a challenging year. And, given the vast array of emotions we have experienced, I would like to offer attention to the Psalms during this season of Advent.
St Augustine said, “God has taught us to praise him in the Psalms, not that he would get anything out of the praise but in order that we may be made better by it.”
Our Psalm for Sunday was Psalm 80:1-7 and 16-18. A phrase that repeats three times in short succession is “Restore us.” Renew. Remake. Rebuild. Return. We have so much that needs restoration in us — as individuals, as families, as communities.
Where we feel fractured, may we be made whole. Where we feel angry, may we be made peaceful. Where we feel lost, may we be made assured.
Thomas Merton said of the Psalms, “The Church loves the Psalms because in them she sings of her experience of God.”
Restore us, O God of hosts; show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
Peace,
M Janie+
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