August 28, 2021 — Psalm 78:54–81:16, Acts 8:25–9:9

“O God, the nations have come into your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple; they have laid Jerusalem in ruins. ² They have given the bodies of your servants to the birds of the air for food, the flesh of your faithful to the wild animals of the earth. ³ They have poured out their blood like water all around Jerusalem, and there was no one to bury them. ⁴ We have become a taunt to our neighbors, mocked and derided by those around us. ⁵ How long, O Lord? Will you be angry forever? Will your jealous wrath burn like fire? ⁶ Pour out your anger on the nations that do not know you, and on the kingdoms that do not call on your name. ⁷ For they have devoured Jacob and laid waste his habitation. ⁸ Do not remember against us the iniquities of our ancestors; let your compassion come speedily to meet us, for we are brought very low.” Psalm 79:1-8

Psalm 79 is a useful Psalm – because it teaches us that suffering can and should be seen from a perspective of faith as well as judgment. There are often harsh realities facing the people of G-d – but some branches of Christianity do not allow for this reality. Prosperity Theologians will tell you that if you are suffering, then you do not have a strong enough faith. But we Lutherans, like the Psalmist suggests, cannot lose faith or hope in the midst of adversity. Suffering of the faithful cannot be seen as G-d’s weakness – or just as G-d’s judgment and punishment. Why? Well, all we need to do is remember the cross – a sign of humiliation and shame. The cross is our symbol of power and grace and the ultimate answer to the question “Where is G-d?” The answer is that G-d is both a G-d of power, and suffering – cross and resurrection. Through the death of Jesus on the cross, G-d dies – but is not defeated. From the tomb G-d rises to tell the world that even death is not stronger than G-d. Nothing can separate us from the love of G-d found in Jesus Christ.

Let us Pray,

Lord, we often cry “How long?” when we are suffering, in pain, or grieving. It is enticing to be angry at you. Help us see your love in the pain and suffering we are enduring, for you endured the same pain through Jesus. Your love does not protect us from suffering, but your love helps us endure the same as we call upon your name. Send your love speedily – and let your mercy be everlasting. Amen.

Pastor Dave