The power of one

The Lord’s voice shakes the oaks
   and strips the leaves from the trees
   while everyone in his Temple shouts, ‘Glory to God!’
The Lord rules over the deep waters;
   he rules as king for ever.
The Lord gives strength to his people
   and blesses them with peace.
(verses 9-11)

Read Psalm 29

Who is the most powerful person in the world? Is it someone like the President of the United States, who has his finger on the most deadly arsenal of weapons in the world? Is it some Olympic athlete who has run faster or jumped higher than anyone else in the recorded history of human kind? Is it some international media mogul who can sway world opinion by the turn of an editorial phrase?

All such power is small and finite next to the power of God. You can see God’s power reverberating in the thunder and lightning that he created and pulsating in the cyclones and earthquakes that wreak their forces upon the earth. Prestigious presidents, spectacular sportspeople and enterprising editors can only stand in awe of him and echo his praises. Not only does God’s power, unlike theirs, last forever, but he insists on using it, unlike them, for the sole benefit of his people, for their continuing benefit and peace. He is the most powerful one.

Lord, I acknowledge you power and authority in the world and put myself in your hands. Give me your strength and your peace. Amen

by Richard Hauser, in ‘Assurance for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2004)

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