Psalm 46
1God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the mountains be toppled into the
depths of the sea;
3Though its waters rage and foam,
and though the mountains tremble at its tumult.
4The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
5There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
6God is in the midst of her;
she shall not be overthrown;
God shall help her at the break of day.
7The nations make much ado, and the kingdoms are shaken;
God has spoken, and the earth shall melt away.
8The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
9Come now and look upon the works of the LORD,
what awesome things he has done on earth.
10It is he who makes war to cease in all the world;
he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear,
and burns the shields with fire.
11″Be still, then, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations;
I will be exalted in the earth.”
12The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
A Prayer for the Poor and Neglected
Almighty and most merciful God, we remember before you all poor and neglected persons whom it would be easy for us to forget: the homeless and the destitute, the old and the sick, and all who have none to care for them. Help us to heal those who are broken in body or spirit, and to turn their sorrow into joy. Grant this, Father, for the love of your Son, who for our sake became poor, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
