Living Psalms Book
Psalms in the form of words and art, reborn in the specific contexts of our world, privileging the voices of historically marginalized communities and those acting in solidarity with them.

Living Psalm 138: Epiphany 5 C

A Psalm of Resilience

Mother God, I give you thanks with my entire being-
Heart, soul, mind.
Over and above all on earth and in heaven
I dance, I sing, I rejoice.

I traipse on this earth in my bare feet
Surrounded by seas and lakes, mountains and fields.

The chilled dirt below me reminds me of your refreshing presence,
And I give thanks to your name, 
for your love forever journeys with me.

Your presence is our temple.
Your presence is our Holy Ground.

***

As we travel together on this side of heaven, I remember that moment…
The time I cried to you in anguish.
Could I move from my harrowing rigidity?
Could my mind exit the repeated loops of despair?

Wondering if I could take another step,
Confused why this was happening to me,
You answered me.

I knew I wasn’t alone.
Your creation sung of your presence.

You infused vigor into my soul
So that I could take one more breath,
Progress one step forward,
Live one more day.

***

I hope someday that the powers-that-be praise you-
Not just with their mouth but with their entire being.
I dream that they will listen to your words
And open their spirit to your visions.

May they know of your redeeming love.
May the doorway into their hearts break open.

Some will sing of your presence.
Some will celebrate your righteousness.

But the heart of the arrogant will turn in on itself
And only see you from far away-

Or not at all.

***

I know you, Mother God.
I know you scoop up the marginalized into your loving arms.
You lift their spirits and set them onto the pedestal of resilience.
You’ve done this for me.

When we walk in the midst of trouble-
In front of those who assault hearts, attack bodies and batter souls
You will preserve me.

You’ve gifted me with resilience.
Your hand leads me into the next chapter.
I will see your intentions for my life
And dwell in your steadfast love forever.

Living Psalm 138: A Psalm of Resistance , was written by the Rev. Michelle Torigian, Senior Pastor, St Paul UCC in Belleville, IL.

Living Psalms Book is created by UCC Witness & Worship Artists’ Group, a Network of UCC connected artists, activists and ministers bridging the worship and liturgy of the local church with witness and action in the community.  

Logo is detail from Living Psalm 80 by Sophia Beardemphl, Redwoods, CA. Recovering from significant bullying, Sophia, age nine, read Psalm 80 and thought of brokenness that needs mending. She drew this broken and mended bowl.

© Copyright 2019 Michelle Torigian.  Permission granted to reproduce or adapt this material for use in services of worship or church education.  All publishing rights reserved.