Selfishness! That's the result of a world that rejects or ignores God. It's the logical end for those who have chosen to be their own god or to act like God. In this "all about me" world we live in, even the most giving of people have to be cautious. I get tired of constantly trying to keep from being scammed or taken advantage of.
It's not just about locking my car or my house anymore. I'm wary of the auto mechanic, the repairman, the businessman, the advertiser, the salesman, virtually everyone with whom I do business. I have to protect myself against identity theft, spam, computer viruses, hackers, theft, arson, liability, false suits, bogus websites.
I confess, society has taught me to be suspicious of everyone and always on my guard, defensive. It causes me to be cynical about people and trust no one. I'm always attempting to decipher the angles others are working on me. I guess it causes me to become cold and demanding and self-protective. I'm less sensitive to needs and less responsive when I see one. I'm tired of expecting to be conned or ripped off every time I turn around.
I really feel the cry of King David in the last verse of this Psalm. Will it ever stop? Will I ever feel safe? And if I feel this way, what about the weak and defenseless who are prime targets for the purveyors and perpetrators of evil? Who will stand for the innocent and helpless? Who will minister to the poor, hungry, homeless, aged, defenseless?
The church should be a community that is a place of refuge and encouragement and giving. It should be a place where we can trust one another and share with one another and seek to meet each others' needs. The aged, weak, poor, abused, forgotten, addicted are all around us. Unfortunately we, The Church, have developed the attitude of letting the government take care of things and people.
God, I truly want to be a light shining in the darkness. I want to be salt that seasons and preserves. Forgive my cynical and suspicious spirit. Forgive my cold heart and blind eye. Show me how to be more giving, more gracious. I want to be your hands and feet and touch. I want people around me in need to find refuge, strength and security in You through me.
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