The first casualties of upheaval can be love, kindness, and patience. But crisis is also a moment when love for God & one another can spring up. For 150 days, starting on 17th March 2020, I will write 300 words based on one of the 150 psalms in the bible. How can I find and give love in the midst of coronavirus?

If you want to get my attention, then do not send me a long message. If you need me to reply to your email quickly, then make sure that it is not more than one or two paragraphs – any longer and I put off reading it. (Writing this now reminds me that I have a huge long email that I haven’t replied to yet).

Former US President Ronald Reagan would only read proposals if the took up no more than one side of A4 paper – double spaced. I have a lot of sympathy with the man.

So why, O why, did the writer of Psalm 119 think it was OK to go on for sooooo long? It’s the longest chapter of the Bible by a country mile. 176 verses. When I normally come to it, I read it in stages – it is divided into 8 verse chunks that each stage with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet. But today I have read the whole thing through. And you know what? There is some really good stuff buried away in the massive poem. Here are some things that grabbed me:

I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. 

I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.  

Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.  

Your statutes are my delight; they are my counsellors. 

My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.  

I run in the path of your commands, for you have broadened my understanding.  

I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts. 

You are my portion, Lord ; I have promised to obey your words.  

The earth is filled with your love, Lord ; teach me your decrees.

Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.

Psalms 119:15-16, 18, 24, 28, 32, 45, 57, 64, 133

Every verse of Psalm 119 mentions God’s word, law, precepts, commands, decrees, statutes or promises (with the exception of three verses – see if you can find them). Why? Because the writer of this psalm, and many of the Jews, had become convinced of something. That the things that God has said are powerful, life-giving, directing, sustaining, challenging and uplifting.

The writer has worked this out and asks again and again for God to help them to love His words and to live by them.

And it this that I want to say a huge “AMEN” to. God’s words in the bible can do all these things – and then some.

But, and it’s a big but – they are not always easy to find your way into. Getting to grips with the bible is a challenge. It requires digging, exploring, thinking – but my word, it is worth it.

So, while Psalm 119 may be too long – the point it makes it spot on.

Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.  (18)

Love

Matt