Psalm 109:31 “…for he stands at the right hand of the needy.”

God, you’re found at the right hand of the needy. You are there defending them from attack and harm as they try to walk. You are there supporting them as they stumble and fall; unable to call on their own strength. You are there serving them when they are hungry, sick, thirsty, homeless, sad, crying, dying, lonely, afraid, tired – in need. You are there communing with them: encouraging them, laughing with them, having conversation, listening and just hanging out. I just noticed I have used the word “them” when referring to the needy, exposing my own pride that refuses to be associated with those who are in need…forgive me. I am needy. I need your defense, for it seems that attacks and harm are around many corners (even if only in my mind). I need your support, for I often stumble not only into sin, but also in my roles: as a dad, husband, pastor and child of yours (wow that last sentence really sheds light on my western paradigm to perform, as if to be your child requires me to be in a role where I can succeed or fail). I need you to serve me in my hunger, thirst, sadness, loneliness, fear and weariness so I can learn from you how to serve others. I need you to commune with me and I realize that as soon as I write this, you are already there standing to my right, desiring my communion. Thank you for standing at my right hand. I don’t deserve it, but that is what grace does – that is what a dad does: defends, supports, serves, and just hangs out with his kids.

Thanks for being such a good dad! I am glad I’m your kid.

J-Ro