By Rose Shetler, director of annual giving and operations manager
Scripture: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 (NRSV)
After a highly contentious presidential campaign, we could all use a little restoration.
People who care deeply about this country, its leadership and policies, are exhausted.
Those who are more or less indifferent are exhausted from hearing about it.
We could all use a little restoration.
Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel . . . You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth . . . come to save us!
Racial conflicts escalate. Drought, floods and wildfires destroy.
Protesters decry election results — not my president!
Whiners, sore losers!
Protesters at Standing Rock seek justice. Hear our cry! Protect our water and our land!
Many, including veterans, join in support.
At long last the cries are heard.
Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Wars rage. Refugees seek refuge, and immigrants still want a better life.
Build the wall!
Make sanctuary cities!
You have fed us with the bread of tears, and given us tears to drink by the bowlful.
Religion is suspect if not our religion. Register them!
We have a right to religious freedom!
You make us the scorn of our neighbors; our enemies laugh among themselves.
Weariness and worry settle in to stay.
We’re exhausted. Our prayers seem to fall flat.
We could all use a little restoration.
O God, send us Jesus to show us the way to your heart.
Then we will never turn back from you; give us life, and we will call on your name.
Restore us, O LORD God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Yes Lord, come in human form and save us from ourselves.
Help us value all of life as you do. We need your restoration!
Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 (NRSV)
Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth
2before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh. Stir up your might, and come to save us!
3Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
4O Lord God of hosts, how long will you be angry with your people’s prayers?
5You have fed them with the bread of tears, and given them tears to drink in full measure.
6You make us the scorn of our neighbors; our enemies laugh among themselves.
7Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
17But let your hand be upon the one at your right hand, the one whom you made strong for yourself.
18Then we will never turn back from you; give us life, and we will call on your name.
19Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.