I’ve said these words from Psalm 19 and I’ve heard them more times than I can count – usually as a short prayer before a preacher starts the sermon.
Rev. Beth Quick, pastor of Franklin Lakes United Methodist Church in New Jersey, has heard it, too. Here’s what she says in this week’s lectionary notes:
“This verse is often used by pastors before they begin preaching. I like it, but if there's a way to use a Bible verse too much to the point of over doing, this one makes it on my personal list!”
I’ve heard of, and experienced the ‘dulling’ or powerful words when they’ve been repeated so often that they don’t seem to hold any meaning anymore. But I’ve also experienced the profound comfort that comes when I can think of nothing else except for what I have repeated to the point of not only memorization, but subconscious internalization.
When I’m in a place where I have no words, the words I’ve repeated so often are present – providing a way for me to, in that moment, have a profoundly powerful encounter with God.
What are your thoughts?
1 comment:
i agree that repetition can be powerful and important. some how i got into the habit of starting all of my prayers with "thank you," and it becomes automatic now... even in the most dark moments there's something to be thankful for. still, i know what the author means by losing meaning sometimes by repetition. sometimes i worry that we don't listen to the lord's prayer anymore...
Post a Comment