The Peace We Long For: Advent in Disorienting Times | Day 15

5 Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God: 6 Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever: 7 Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The Lord looseth the prisoners: 8 The Lord openeth the eyes of the blind: the Lord raiseth them that are bowed down: the Lord loveth the righteous: 9 The Lord preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down. 10 The Lord shall reign for ever, even thy God, O Zion, unto all generations. Praise ye the Lord.

Psalms 146: 5-10

Psalm 146: 5-10 is a song of praise that urges trust in God rather than in human leaders, who are mortal and limited. It celebrates God as the eternal Creator who cares for the vulnerable—providing justice for the oppressed, food for the hungry, freedom for prisoners, healing for the blind, protection for foreigners, and support for orphans and widows. The psalm ends with the affirmation that the Lord reigns forever, calling all people to praise Him.

As I read this passage, I was reminded of the times when I was vulnerable. Vulnerable with my mental health and how I have suicidal ideations. This passage allows me to trust that God cares for me despite my demons and urges me to trust in him who is omnipotent.

The oppression that exists in this world, particularly surrounding mental health, is overwhelming at times, but this Psalm reminds us that God provides justice for the oppressed.

The words in this psalm, which were written over 2000 years ago, are still applicable in today’s world. We, as humans, still struggle with food for the hungry, healing from disabilities, protection for foreigners, and support for those who have lost people in their lives. It is quite amazing to think that these problems still exist.

God calls us to trust in him rather than human leaders, as they are limited and God is unlimited. We have all experienced one, if not more, of the vulnerabilities listed in this song. This passage provides hope and calls us to praise him, as there is peace in knowing that the almighty creator cares for our vulnerabilities. The closing line,

“The Lord shall reign forever,” is meant not just as a statement of fact but as a deep comfort: the goodness of God is not temporary. His reign doesn’t end. His character doesn’t waver. His care doesn’t expire.

Prayer:  Lord, I place my trust in You alone. You are faithful, kind, and always nearby. Lift me where I am weak, guide me where I cannot see, and help me reflect Your mercy to others. Reign in my heart today and always. Amen