December 9, 2005
“But the Lord abides forever; He has established His throne for judgment, and He will judge the world in righteousness; He will execute judgment for the peoples with equity. The Lord also will be a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble; and those who know Your name will put their trust in You, for You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.” Psalm 9:7-10
As we have watched the news this week we have been inundated with stories about the violence in Iraq as their elections near as well as the horrible state of affairs in south Asia as those devastated by the tsunami continue to grieve and mourn over their losses.
When we watch, listen and read about these events throughout the world we often experience a wealth of different emotions. We get angry at the shedding of innocent blood and terrorism and we wonder if those responsible will ever have to face the consequences.
As we hear and see more reports about the tsunami and the devastating loss of life and possessions we wonder if anyone will answer their cry for help.
Today I am grateful and thankful for those service men and women who place themselves in harms way in order to protect freedom and lives all across the world. I am also grateful for those who have given time, money and resources to help with the disaster relief.
But more than that, I am also thankful today that I serve a God that is both just and compassionate. I am confident that the Almighty God will hold responsible those who fail to place a high value on human life. I am also confident that He will show compassion to those who are searching for answers and at the bottom of the pit emotionally.
David helps us understand this truth in the 9th Psalm. He writes of a God who will judge fairly and without partiality, as well as a God who will be a source of strength to those who are hurting and weak.
As we worship the Lord today, would you praise Him that He is fair and compassionate, just and full of grace?
Father, we thank you for your mercies that are new everyday, and we praise you for your justice and righteousness…
