Day 17
Wednesday, December 14
Raymond Park
Psalm 102 is an individual lament. The title describes it as “A Prayer of one afflicted.” The affliction is unclear, but the suffering may be all too relatable. Groaning. Weeping. Loss of appetite. Loss of vitality. Isolation and loneliness. All of this is exacerbated by a sense of God’s “indignation and anger” (v.10), acknowledging that, even over our pain, God is sovereign.
What do we do in the face of such afflictions? The psalmist provides some helpful tips.
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- Remember God’s compassion. Jesus didn’t leave us in our isolation but “became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). He didn’t abandon us in our griefs and sorrows but carried them upon himself (Isa 53:4). We’re tempted by affliction to numb ourselves and despair; don’t give in. God hears our groans (Ps 102: 20) and listens to our prayers of pain and longing (v.17). Empowered by his compassion, we can face and feel our hurts. Appeal to his goodness and glory for mercy and deliverance, so that he receives the praise (v.18).
- Remember suffering is temporary…but God is eternal. Our suffering can seem long and all-encompassing. Yet in contrast to the psalmist’s suffering of “days,” God is “enthroned forever” (Ps 102:12) and his “years have no end” (v.27). God’s eternal purposes are to bless his people, to bring together peoples and nations to know and worship him.
- Seek his face. “Do not hide your face from me” (Ps 102:2). It’s easy to focus on ourselves in our own suffering, but if we’re able to see God’s face, to catch a glimpse of him as Isaiah did (Isaiah 6:5), or Moses (Exodus 34:6-9), our troubles melt away because God is the focus and in the rightful place in our hearts.
Heavenly Father, hear our prayer. Hide not your face from us. We wait for you.Amen.
Ray lives in East Cambridge and enjoys playing injury-free Ultimate Frisbee.