Last night we used the scripture reading set by CTBI as part of their Lent 2011 series, which was Psalm 32.  It is a well-loved and lovely psalm, very honest about the writer's experiences and need for reconciliation with God.  Just that verse 6 is a tad unfortunate just at the moment...

"Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters will not reach them."

I know this is the language of metaphor, and I am certainly not blaming anyone for using this set passage to guide our thoughts, just that we can be pretty confident that among those swept away in recent events, literally or metaphorically, are faithful people of prayer.

Of course, taking a verse from here or there is a dangerous practice, and the psalm continues to speak of God as a 'hiding place', a refuge not from but within the storm.

As the news continues to unfold, and as events are New Zealand, let alone the so-called 'third world' are almost forgotten inthe wake of those in Japan, we need to beware glib answers to complex questions as we continue to pray for those directly affected.

Lord, have mercy,

Chirst have mercy,

Lord have mercy