Reflection on Psalm 13 - "Prayer for Deliverance from Enemies"

Given that we are in year 3 of what seems to be a never-ending pandemic, I definitely relate to the psalmists cry of "how long oh Lord"!  

But I am struck by the fact that it places the virus in the role of "the enemy".  and in fact, the virus is just doing what viruses do; replicating and mutating o find a way to survive. The virus isn't out to get me per se, because in reality, the virus needs me - us - to survive. It sees us as its host, not its foe.

Which leads me to examine what I'm really weary and afraid of.  What is the enemy that threatens to overtake me, rejoicing in my despair and defeat?

In a very meaningful way, I think my anxiety and frustration is driven by my own internal to acknowledge and adapt to the new reality.  I say that I love change and aspire to be a catalyst for change.  But I realize that in truth, I love change that I control - not change that is forced by something beyond my ability to understand or control or stop.  I am fighting with the reality that my life is very much affected, even dependent in many ways, on something beyond me.

Which is why "give light to my eyes" (v3b) resonates with me today.  I hear it as a prayer for a change in perspective.  To look up and around and see - not what is missing/I can't do/I used to do.  But what I have.  I can do.  I am doing.

I mentioned to a wise elder the other day that I was lucky to have XYZ relationship.  She gently corrected me by saying, "You aren't lucky, You are blessed".  That simple word change is a massive change in perspective:)

Prayer for today

Dear God,

Thank you for all that you have and continue to do for me, my family, our community and our world. Bring light and life to my eyes to keep reminding me of the many, many blessings that surround me everyday.  Even in the midst of sorrow there are reasons to give you praise.  I don't aspire to be "too blessed to be stressed".  Instead help me recognize and appreciate all of your daily blessings that empower and comfort me so that the stresses of life are bearable for me and enable me to be a blessing to others. Amen.