The Peace We Long For: Advent in Disorienting Times | Day 7

May the mountains bring prosperity to the people, the hills the fruit of righteousness. May he defend the afflicted among the people and save the children of the needy; may he crush the oppressor.

Psalm 72

Psalm 72 is regarded as a prayer and a song that would be sung on the coronation day of the new king of Judah. It expresses a hope and a longing for a new king who would not be like the previous ones—one who truly cares about the needs of the people, the oppressed, the children, and the needy. Unfortunately, history shows us that many of these kings fell short of fulfilling the ideals expressed in this song. However, this does not diminish the significance of their longing for a leader who would be compassionate toward the afflicted, the oppressed, and the vulnerable. It reflects their vision for what could be or should be.

It can be disorienting when the values and virtues we uphold seem to be at odds with the way the world operates. The beauty of Advent lies in our ability to hold in tension the promise of what is coming into this world—the Prince of Peace—and the often harsh reality of our existing circumstances.

Despite the disorientation we may experience, the pursuit of peace remains crucial. This peace strives for wholeness for all humanity, especially for those who are most vulnerable.

PRAYER: Holy God, keep us mindful of those who lack basic resources in these times. We pray for those who are hungry or without a safe place to stay. We pray for those in homeless shelters, in prisons, in detention centers, where close quarters make social distancing even more difficult. We follow a Christ who looked out for the most vulnerable, the least, the last, and the lost. Help us too, in these anxious times, to serve first the ones who need the most. Amen. 

From Rev. Lee Hull Moses, Chief of Staff, Office of the General Minister and President, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)