"Be Still"

When I meet with those who are in crisis, or are scared, or are facing hard things, I often pray for a calm heart and a calm mind. This Psalm, particularly this translation, has been guide for me at times when I’ve needed to be reminded that God is, indeed, a loving presence in times of trouble. May this Psalm be a reminder to be still, and may the Holy Spirit be with you calming your heart and your mind to know God’s love.

Psalm 46 from Psalms for Praying, an Invitation to Wholness by Nan C. Merrill

The Beloved is our refuge and our strength, a loving presence in times of trouble.

Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.

There is a river whose streams make glad the Holy City, the holy habitation of the Most High. The Beloved is in the midst of it, it shall not be moved; Our loving Creator is an ever-present help.

The nations may be at war, countries left in ruins, yet is the Voice of the Almighty heard, melting hearts of stone.

The Beloved is with us, the infinite Heart of Love. 

Come, behold the works of the Beloved, how love does reign even in humanity’s desolation. For the Beloved makes wars to cease, breaking through the barriers of fear, shattering the greedy and oppressors, refining hearts of iron!

“Be still and know that I am Love. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth!”

The One who knows all hearts is with us; The Beloved is our refuge and our strength.

Amen. Peace be with you.

Ruth