November 6: Of Lifted Voices

Ezekiel 14:12-16:41

Hebrews 7:18-28

Psalm 106:1-12

Proverbs 27:4-6

When Donald Trump was inaugurated president four years ago, there was a woman watching the proceedings who, when the president was introduced and as others lifted their voices in celebration, got on her knees and screamed in anguish and despair.  Repeatedly.  And at length.  It was, to me, shocking behavior yet, to so many, so very acceptable and righteous.  To be emulated, even.  

Cut to four years later, and as the counting draws to a close, there are many now on the other side - on my side, admittedly - who may feel the same way: hurt, angry, fearful, possibly cheated, even enraged.  As Christians, how are we to respond?

Today's psalm tells us how we are to respond, and why we are able to respond that way.  

1. Verse 1-2.  First, we are to remember all the Lord has done, and give Him thanks.  The psalmist doesn't make this conditional on our circumstances.  We are simply to give thanks, because the Lord's love endures forever - meaning even through the circumstances causing us so much angst.
2. Verse 6-7.  Having remembered what God has done, let us be honest about our own actions as well.  Despite how much the Lord has blessed us, we have sinned against Him.
3. Verses 8-12.  And just as our sin tempts us to a deeper despair based on the realization our troubles may well be deserved, let us remember how God saved has saved sinners in the past - mightily, decisively.
4. Verses 4-5.  Then, having acknowledged our sin, let us approach the Lord and ask Him to show us the same favor and salvation.  

So if today, because of the elections, or on any other day, for whatever reason, we feel the need to raise our voices, let us remember how blessed we are we that we can raise our voices not in anger and fear, but in joy and faith, whatever our circumstances.  And we can do so because our God loves us, forgives us, and saves us.