Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
Verse 2will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust."
Verse 9Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your dwelling place,
Verse 10no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent.
Verse 11For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.
Verse 12On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.
Verse 13You will tread on the lion and the adder, the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot.
Verse 14Those who love me, I will deliver; I will protect those who know my name.
Verse 15When they call to me, I will answer them; I will be with them in trouble, I will rescue them and honor them.
Verse 16With long life I will satisfy them, and show them my salvation.
Devotion
Today, “Fat Tuesday,” many people will celebrate with pancake feasts. Traditionally, these celebrations emptied larders of rich foods—fat, eggs and dairy products—in preparation for the Lenten season of denial. Also known as “Shrove Tuesday,” this was customarily the day for clergy “to shrive” or hear confessions as parishioners began their journeys of deep, personal examination and reflection. This, too, is our Lenten journey.
As we reflect on our sinfulness, we can become our own worst enemies by immobilizing and trapping ourselves in doubts, regrets and even self-loathing. However, if we are repentant, we can escape life’s snares by seeking shelter with our faithful God who forgives, delivers and protects us, including from ourselves. In our Lord’s loving care and refuge, Psalm 91 assures us God will rescue and grant us “long life” and “salvation” (v. 16). Redeemed through Christ’s death and resurrection, our Lenten journey includes the assurance of eternal life!
Prayer
God our refuge: Repentant, we long to abide in the shelter of your love and grace. Forgive, guide and protect us throughout our earthly journey into eternal life. Amen.