Psalm Meditation 1341 ¶Second Sunday in Lent ¶March 1, 2026 ¶Psalm 61 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2061&version=NRSVUE ¶Sometimes all we need to do is close our eyes, open our hearts and minds to be in the presence of someone who is not physically present, yet so much a part of us that we experience them as if they were with us in the flesh. It could be a parent, a friend, a mentor past or present, or, as for the psalmist, God. The physical environment has not changed, however, we can feel the change around us, as we call to mind the one who can lead us to a place of refuge and security against any onslaught. ¶The psalmist leans on the abiding presence of God in this time of crisis, reminding us that we can do the same. Knowing that God is with us we are able to face the ‘slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,’ and stand firm in the presence of all adversities as we are sheltered in the wings of God. As we receive refuge in the presence of God, we also know that we are surrounded by the great cloud of witnesses who choose to abide in the tent of God. ¶As we weather the storms of life in the presence of God, we feel our hearts lift and lighten. With lightened hearts we can more readily sing the praises of God for every gift that comes from God’s hand. ¶February 23, 2026 ¶LCM