Matthew 6:1-6

While I completed my Ph.D., money was tight because I finished the program without student loans. There were weeks in which having enough food was a challenge, so I learned creative ways to cook low-cost, nutritious meals.

Our department’s graduate studies coordinator, Bonnie, often privately helped struggling graduate students. One day, I mentioned to Bonnie that money was especially tight that week. I was astonished when she wordlessly took her lunch from the office fridge and gave the entire meal to me.

When I reflect on that moment, I remember someone who enacted her spiritual convictions and helped others without expectation of recognition. Bonnie’s example taught me to look for ways to quietly give every day with a grateful heart.

Prayer: Open my eyes to the everyday needs around me, and lead me to ways I can quietly help others by using the talents and other gifts You’ve given to me.

                                                                                 —Teresa Heinz Housel

Psalm 22:23-26

 From Despair to Praise and Gratitude

Psalm 22 begins with the words “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” These words recur in Mark’s and Matthew’s accounts of the crucifixion of Jesus (Mark 15:34 and Matthew 27:46). Some of those hearing Jesus’ words “My God, My God,” or “Eloi, Eloi” in their original language, thought Jesus was calling upon Elijah. Others more familiar with the Psalms would have recalled the opening words of this psalm, which in verse 18 alludes to evildoers casting lots for the psalmist’s clothing, another parallel to the experience of Jesus.

The psalmist in today’s reading and Jesus by his crucifixion and resurrection together tell us that our laments, our dark nights of the soul—and we all experience these in one way or another—are not the last words. In verses 23-26 the psalmist speaking to a congregation, family, community—and to us—says that God did not forsake him but heard his cry and brought him through the difficult time. He urges them and us to respond in praise, glory, and awe. In gratitude, he pays vows, perhaps alms that help to ensure that the “poor shall eat and be satisfied.”

Prayer: Listening and responsive God, we are grateful that You do not forsake us—as You did not forsake the psalmist or your Son on the cross—and we are grateful that your Holy Spirit is with us to help us through despairing times. Help us to express our gratitude in ways that prevent our neighbors near and far from feeling forsaken.

                                                                                                 —Judy Parr