Scripture: Psalm 34:4-6 (NRSV)
I sought the Lord, decease and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. Look to him, and be radiant; so your faces shall never be ashamed. This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord, and was saved from every trouble.

Thought for the Day:  I think these days of media saturation make it terribly difficult for us to remember that, as bleak as the picture painted on TV is, humans have been and are capable of amazing acts of selfless love. We’re inventive and imaginative. We create art, music, and dance simply because it feels good. We push the limits of our knowledge with science, physics, and critical thinking about theology and our place in the universe. Our diverse cultures and customs are like the spices in a really good stew, all mixed up and melding together into something more savory than any of the ingredients on their own.

It’s just so easy to forget all that, when we’re surrounded by violent, intolerant images. I want to start a 24 hour Good News channel that reports about the things humans do each day that contribute to the betterment of our world. Because I’ll bet there are actually a lot more people who care in the world than not. I’ll bet there are a lot more people who are compassionate in the world than not. I’ll bet there are more people who would give selflessly of themselves for another than not.

I’ll bet my life on it, because Jesus bet his.

Prayer: God of endless wonder and beauty, may my life be a reflection of your grace, and a fulfillment of humankind’s inherent, but too hidden, loving nature. Amen.