Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22
Usually when the lectionary schedule give us a passage but does not include all the verses, or, as is the case of Psalms, we are just assigned a portion of the Psalm when it would be best to read the entire Psalm – usually, I will just tell you to read the entire passage. In Psalm 107, however, I think reading just a couple of sections is best. That is why our reading seems so dissected for today.
Psalm 107 addresses four different groups of people who have been rescued and redeemed by God. All four sections are introduced by the first 3 verses of the Psalm – which introduces the primary thread which is God’s steadfast love. Honestly, you could walk through a craft show in Oklahoma and you will undoubtedly find many items for sale that include something from these first three verses (you could do the same with Christian songs) however, you are seldom going to find anything from the remainder of the Psalm, especially not the second part of our assigned passage. It is not a pretty or heartwarming passage, unless you realize that this steadfast love of God, in reality, if for everyone, even if their life is messy, ugly, disobedient, unloving, etc.
If there was a way to make this truth marketable, I assure you that this truth of our reality would sell out quickly. As you read it, take comfort in that reality that is met by God’s steadfast love.
Order, Words, & Voices 