Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.” vs. 3
Psalm 80:1-3
Ever since the beginning humans have been deeply aware of the brokenness that is a part of life in this incredibly good world. We can easily grasp the magnificence of the creation with our senses. We see how everything fits together and how each little thing has its place. The beauty of sunrises and sunsets continues to amaze, and the scents of blossoming fruit trees regularly remind us of the passing seasons. And then there’s the love that is the heartbeat of nature’s harmony–it touches us all, and celebrates our basic unity. But along with all the goodness, there is that darkness that continues to bedevil our unity, and undermine our stewardship of creation. We can’t escape the ugliness or overcome our ravaging histories. We know that more is expected, but our best efforts fall short, sabotaged by our idolatrous pursuit of money, sex, and power. The psalmist, fully aware of the human condition, knew there was only one hope, and so he prays for restoration, a healing of the brokenness, and salvation for our souls. That’s why Christmas is such a big deal! It marks the very beginning of that restoration and reminds us that every person is a beloved child of God and can be a source of divine love and mercy. And some years that salvation is more than a dream. We actually see and feel it in ourselves and others.
Thought for the Day: What does restoration feel like?
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