Psalm Meditation 1324 ¶Proper 26 ¶November 2, 2025 ¶Psalm 34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2034&version=NRSVUE ¶Thankfulness leads to richer, fuller, deeper thankfulness in the same way that cynicism and negativity are breeding grounds for deepening cynicism and negativity. In this psalm, the choice is for thankfulness. Does choosing thankfulness mean that we ignore evil in the world knowing that it will all be hunky dory in the end? No. Choosing to be thankful means that we focus on the good things that make the world around us more bearable. As Mr. Rogers’ mother told him, ‘look for the helpers in troubled times.’ There are always people who look for ways to help others in every time and space. ¶The psalmist says, “I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” I am convinced that God is ready and willing to answer any and all who ask, and it is those who seek the LORD who give credit to God. However we believe good things happen in our lives, we can be grateful that they do. Thankfulness is not confined to those of us in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Anyone can be thankful, and anyone can lead a life of thankfulness. God recognizes gratitude wherever it abides. ¶“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord rescues them from them all.” Do we get plucked out of our afflictions or do we see that we are not alone in them no matter what? I believe it is the second choice. God rarely removes us from trouble, and is more likely to invite us to take refuge in the shelter of God’s presence. Somehow, knowing that we are not alone makes any trouble or affliction more bearable. ¶October 28, 2025 ¶LCM