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Hoosier United Methodist News Archives
| Hoosier United Methodist News |
February 2002 |
Thou art with me
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me ." (Psalm 23:4) is the way it is written on my heart.
Another rendering, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me;" Still another, "Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I'm not afraid when you walk at my side."
"Thou are with me!" Whatever the translation, that is the unmistakable point -- God is with us.
The omnipresence of God is the way scholars have described the inescapable presence of God. Most of the time that's reassuring! It ought to be all of the time, of course.
My friend is very depressed; another, very angry. Both want it fixed. Each brings a unique pain from which they seek release. A loved one is told only a few months of life remain. My heart aches. This, too, is a unique pain.
One does not get out of this life without pain, discomfort, disappointment and even fear. They are inescapable. Some pretend they are not. I know better.
While common realities, they do not produce common effects. For some they are alone places. A room with no exit. Permanent.
For the "faithful" who remember, they are transitory. They come and go. But never alone. The promise is sure whatever the rendering -- "thou art with me," "for you are with me," "you walk at my side."
My grandmother used to sing, " … and He walks with me and talks with me ."
A theology sometimes sneered upon as being too simplistic, too -- anthropomorphic. Until you need simplicity and personal relationship and assurance.
We each come to the Table of Life, bringing our spiritual hungers. In reality they are alike, only differing in timing. Spiritual hunger, the valleys, common realities. Would that all would know in pain or depression, anger or fear: Thou art with me!
As we share the holy season of Lent -- a time of looking inward, a moment of utter honesty, quality time with God, remember the hurt places are welcomed. The depression, anger, fear, sadness, anxiety. Even the soiled places have a place. Perhaps, especially the soiled places.
Will you journey with me this Lent as I bring my soiled places -- thought, word, deed. My fears, pain and anxiety. Come all! There is room.
In your darkest valley there is the assurance -- Thou art with me!
Last updated on 01/14/2004