Being Set Apart and Knowing It, Reflection on Psalm 139

My first appointment as a pastor was to a three-point charge in rural Scott and Smith Counties in central Mississippi. Each of the three churches had its own cemetery, and I was called to preside at many funerals.

Not uncommon was the situation that the deceased was not a church-goer but the mourners were.

I often relied on this psalm for the core of the funeral homily.

Read again verses 1-6: God knows where we are. God is paying attention. God is caring for us.

Although verses 7-12 are not included in this week's reading, they were important to the message I needed to convey to the family and friends. "No matter where we go, God knows where we are. No matter where we are, God is with us there."

Not everyone comes to realize the presence of God. But, the Psalmist does and offers words that we can use to express the knowledge and gratitude for God's presence.

Verses 13-18 emphasize the intimacy we have with God. And the response that is appropriate:

I acclaim You. I may not be able to figure out what you are thinking, but I know that I am with you.

Lectio Divina: Psalm 139:17-18