A daily prayer during this COVID-19 crisis for June 25, 2020

June 25, 2020
A daily prayer during this COVID-19 crisis
During these difficult days, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar and the members of the Extended Cabinet are sharing a daily prayer based on the Revised Common Lectionary for the week.
You are welcome to use these in worship or in your own devotions.
Today’s prayer
Psalm 13
1 How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
Psalm 89
1 I will sing of your steadfast love, O Lord, forever;
with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 13
2 How long must I bear pain in my soul,
and have sorrow in my heart all day long?
How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?
Psalm 89
2 I declare that your steadfast love is established forever;
your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens.

Psalmist #13 is hurting — big time; suffering years of torment, pain, trauma
Psalmist # 89 is free; celebrating, worry-free, assured
Both believe in you, God.
Both acknowledge your power … both actually trust in your steadfast love
But one doubts, and the other is sure.
Our circumstances don’t change your love for us.
But our circumstances certainly shake loose or firm up our faith in you.
Help us in our doubt, to restore our belief in you.
And help us to recognize that our good days may be at the cost of someone else’s life or liberty.
Remind us that we are partners with you, co-creators of justice and joy.
With your steadfast love we can do all things.
When we turn our face toward you, you will be reflected for all to see, and know, and rejoice.
May it be so.

By Rev. Erica Robinson-Johnson, Director of Connectional Ministries/Assistant to the Bishop
Psalm 13 and Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18 are both included in this week’s lectionary readings