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Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh. Stir up your might, and come to save us! Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved. O Lord God of hosts, how long will you be angry with your people’s prayers? You have fed them with the bread of tears, and given them tears to drink in full measure. You make us the scorn of our neighbours; our enemies laugh among themselves. Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved. (Psalm 80:1-7)
Early in my career, I came to appreciate those people whose lives shined brightly. One of them was in a dingy nursing home, and though initially I feared entering this home, as I entered her room, her smile, her words shone brightly like a light in a dark place. Her attitude and spirit had beens shaped by God and she blessed all who visited her. Others have been ushers in the churches I served, Sunday school teachers, officers, volunteers, friends, and I count some minister among those. These people know that if invited, God will shine brightly in all situations, and they can't help but reflect that same brightness to those around them.
The psalmist knew this about God as well. He knew God as shepherd, one who loving leads His flock. He knew God's holiness, seated above the presence of angels. And he knew God to shine brightly before all who come into HIs presence. He knew God's power and ability, and desire, to save and restore; and this is what he clamors for: restoration and salvation. Even while confessing his situation had been the source of many tears and mourning, ridicule and scorn, his faith said there was restoration, salvation, and light coming his way if he would but ask.
Advent is a time of deep reflection. Your reflection may have shown you to be in an area or phase of deep need. You too may have cried more than your share of tears, but hear again what the psalmist knew and make it your own experience; God is an awesome God and can bring to us exactly what we need if we but humble ourselves before Him and ask.
PRAYER: Loving God, to this dear reader and me, bring us to the place where we need to be. Help us to be the people who shine brightly the message of love and peace, restoration and salvation. This we pray in Christ Jesus our Lord, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
