Boxed In

Psalm 29: 7-9 (NRSVA)

⁷ The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire.
⁸ The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness;
    the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.

⁹ The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl,
    and strips the forest bare;
    and in his temple all say, ‘Glory!’

Since the pandemic began, it’s been easy to feel ‘boxed in’. Sadly, for some people, this is nothing new. Circumstances, ill-health, abuse, can all conspire to make us feel trapped.

Years ago I saw some performance art at a training conference which powerfully demonstrated this. The artist began reciting the comments made by an ex-partner which began positively and became increasingly negative. As she did so she gradually contracted her body until she was curled up in a ball. It is almost impossible to describe in words what a powerful visual metaphor she created.

We cannot always get ourselves out of such boxes, whether self-imposed or imposed by others or by circumstances outwith our control.

But the voice of God strikes with flashes of lightning.

PRAYER:

Lord God

Sometimes it feels like there is no way out.

Nothing but trees, walls, restrictions, limits.

And yet, if I listen, I can hear thunder. If I look, I can see a flash in the sky.

Twist these oaks that surround me, God,

Show me your power, and help me to cry, ‘Glory!’

Amen