I had every intention of continuing in my Proverbs series this week but given the tragic circumstances of the deaths and suffering of those associated with the Humboldt Broncos bus accident, I want to express my condolences. As well, my heart’s desire is to offer comfort and strength in the face of indescribable pain. That desire has led me to draw my inspiration from the Book of Psalms.
Throughout this most widely read book in the Scriptures, there are many expressions of pain and suffering but thankfully there are also responses that speak of the availability of consolation and fortitude, even in heart-rending circumstances.
David, father of Solomon who wrote most of the Book of Proverbs, understood what it meant to suffer but he also knew how to lean heavily upon God in the direst of circumstances. While being pursued by enemies who were intent on destroying him, here are just a few of the words that he uses to describe the Lord: my fortress, my rock, my strength, my hiding place, a shelter, the One who encamps around me to protect me, my deliverer and my salvation. (Psalms 31-35).
Does that mean that we are exempt from grieving? Never! An anonymous writer of Psalm 130 expressed his grief like this: “Out of the depths I have cried to you, O Lord. Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.”
I realize that this is a very different contribution but in the face of what has happened, I felt the need to share my grief, my prayers and my wishes for comfort in the face of your pain.
May the following words be a source of blessing even in the midst of sorrow: “He gives power to the faint and strengthens the powerless.” Isaiah 40:29 (New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised Catholic Edition)
