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A Psalm for Advent Waiting

I've probably published more versions of this Psalm than any other (I actually posted another version back in July)... I suppose because it speaks so powerfully to the human condition, struggling with the here and now, and holding on to the hope of what is yet to come. Maybe one day I will take a long hard look at it and produce a definitive version... But the first time I posted one, back in 2010, it was with Advent looming... This time I'm posting this responsive version because we used it on Sunday. Again those with LOCD (see yesterday for an explanation) will be twitching at this point but hey ho...

The Lord is my light and my salvation
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life
of whom shall I be afraid?
When evil is on the upsurge and the wicked seem to hold the winning hand
I know that they will not have the last word.
Though the armies of hell seem to be attacking me,
my heart will not fear;
Though world war three break out against me,
even then will I be confident.
One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.
For in days of trouble he will keep me safe within his walls;
he will hide me within the folds of his tent.
He will set my feet firmly a rock
With my head exalted high above the enemies who surround me.
For that reason I will praise God with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make music to the Lord.
Hear my voice when I call, O Lord;
be merciful and answer me.
Do not hide your face from me,
do not turn your servant away.
Do not reject or forsake me, O God my Saviour.
Even though my family forsakes me, I know that the Lord will receive me.
I am confident of this:
I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord;
be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.
From Psalm  27

Selah
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