The friend in whom I trusted, who shared my bread, tells false stories about me. Psalm 41:9 Prayers of the People
The Lectionary from the Book of Common Prayer suggests this psalm for Monday of the first week in Lent, and it is not an easy read. The Christmas Cactus has brilliant blooms, but it also has tiny thorns on its pointy leaves. The plant illustrates the ache (thorns) the Psalmist feels with the realization that his friend(the flower) has betrayed him. In its natural environment, the cactus blooms during the winter holidays when people gaily swap gifts and attend to festivities. In short, they express their love and friendship. We seldom hear gossip about ourselves, but when the texting stops or the persons we met at the office party avoid eye contact, we can be pretty sure our trust has been offended. Suddenly we realize we have an opportunity to practice forgiveness. The very next verse cries for mercy. In our own restoration, our friends benefit from a divine encounter they never sought, and we are free to say hello. Shalom, Mother BE
No comments:
Post a Comment