A Light in the Darkness

The other day in my Bible reading, I began with Psalm 10.  The following verses are excerpted from this section:

“Why dost Thou stand far off, O Lord?

Why dost Thou hide Thyself in times of trouble?

In pride the wicked hotly pursue the afflicted;

Let them be caught in the plots they have devised…

He sits in the lurking places of the villages;

In the hiding places he kills the innocent;

His eyes stealthily watch for the unfortunate.”    (Psalm 10:1-2, 8-9)

Does this remind you of anything?  News broadcasts abound with stories of a democratic land, minding its own business, but then being invaded by a neighboring nation who wants to take over.  Innocent people have been viciously killed, their homes and way of life destroyed – all because a selfish, greedy tyrant wants more and more and wants to make a name for himself, to leave a legacy at all costs.  Pride fuels the continuing onslaught.

I do not begin to understand why God doesn’t strike this evil one down.  We are left with our confusion and our prayers for these people.  But, I have heard there is also a light in the darkness as many are hearing the gospel as they search for supplies and a way to flee to safety.  While our biggest concern seems to be paying more at the pump, theirs is food and safe passage for their loved ones.

And, so we pray, as with the psalmist:

“Arise, O Lord, lift up Thy hand.  Do not forget the afflicted.”    (Ps. 10:12)

As we know and trust:

“The Lord is king forever and ever.  Nations have perished from His land.

O, Lord, Thou hast heard the desire of the humble; Thou wilt strengthen their heart, Thou wilt incline Thine ear

To vindicate the orphan and the oppressed, that man who is of the earth may cause terror no more.”  (Ps.10:16-18)

May His light shine, and bring peace both to their hearts and to their land.   Amen.