Psalm 130 - Lectionary Studies by Pastor Craven

We rarely turn to the Psalter during Lent.  This year is different. Psalm 130 is a call for Patience - something often in short supply as we contend with long lines and short supplies. Those working in retail struggle to maintain their patience with anxious shoppers.  Those on this side of the aisle seem to lack patience for those on that side. And now the CDC tells us that patience is required as we contend with an unprecedented assailant with the frightening name of COVID-19.

According to the Psalmist, patience is an essential part of a healthy spiritual journey. We will have to wait for God to accomplish His purposes in and through us. But, the waiting is active waiting which is far different from passive waiting. Patience and preparation go together. We are to be active in our patience by preparing for what we believe God is doing in our lives. How do we prepare in our waiting? We spend - yes, spend time in God’s word, spend time in prayer, spend time serving God’s people.

Few claim to have patience.  I certainly do not. But I can assure you, I really want patience ... and I want it ... NOW!!!!

Psalm 130 (NRSV)

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications! If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning. O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is great power to redeem. It is he who will redeem Israel from all its iniquities.