Give Me Room
Psalm 4
Psalm 4 (NRSV): (with gender inclusive language)
1 Answer me when I call, O God of my right!
You gave me room when I was in distress.
Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer.
2 How long, you people, shall my honor suffer shame?
How long will you love vain words and seek after lies?
3 But know that God has set apart the faithful;
God hears when I call.
4 When you are disturbed, do not sin;
ponder it on your beds, and be silent.
5 Offer right sacrifices,
and put your trust in God.
6 There are many who say, “O that we might see some good!
Let the light of your face shine on us, O God!”
7 You have put gladness in my heart
more than when their grain and wine abound.
8 I will both lie down and sleep in peace,
for you alone, O God, make me lie down in safety.
Queries:
How does this Psalm give words to my own experience?
In what areas of my life do I seek peace? What do I need so that peace can emerge?
How have I experienced God answering my call, showing up for me?
How might I be an answer to the calls of others? How might I show up for them?
How could momentarily letting go serve me well?
Referenced: FCNL Legislative Priorities 2024
IV.1.1 - Stop Causing Climate Change: Transition away from burning fossil fuels and other practices that contribute to global warming. Invest instead in sustainable systems and technologies.
I.2.3 - Stop Arming the World: Stop spreading deadly arms around the world. Instead, use our wealth and power to promote peace and to provide disaster relief.
II.4.3 - Listen to Native Americans: Honor treaties with native peoples. Lift up the voices of indigenous people and their wisdom about justice, earthcare, and community economies.
III.2.6 - Protect Access to Health Care: Protect health care access for all people, including pregnant people and trans people. Barriers based on race, class or wealth should be dismantled. Health care should not be for profit.
III.1.8 - Fight for Economic Justice for All: Expand work opportunities. Onshore living wage jobs. Make housing affordable. Refugees, immigrants, and ex-convicts should all be able to find opportunities for a dignified life in America. Tax the rich!
Additional Comments: Our group is worried about creeping authoritarianism. We trust FCNL will do what it can to promote government transparency and protect our democracy.