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PSALM 137 - Bitterness 18 Mar 2020
Today I saw two places with youth memories "destroyed." One of my favorite stores, "HEMA" had moved to a new location. I visited the new site. Memories from the old shop and my youth came vividly to my mind.
Later during the day I walked in a forest area where I walk regularly. Because of maintenance works on the provincial water pipe system, a broad path with many "fallen/destroyed" trees was what I found. I felt sad.
I desired to serve God at a new place where I could leave behind the old memories. I assume this was a response of disappointment and some bitterness. I entrusted my life and future to God. He can choose for me.
Where to Live?
The world and my city Eindhoven face a "Corona" epidemic. It is somewhat similar to an exile. It is recommended that we refrain from ordinary social contact. I do not feel like singing. I can not escape the circumstances that God has brought on my path. Traveling is discouraged. I ask God for the courage to bear with possible sickness brought on or around my path. I pray for courage to help where needed. 5% percent of the people diagnosed with Corona may die. My hope is that Corona will only develop serious sickness for a few. The place where I am to live today is simply amidst the Corona.
Psalm 137
1 By the rivers of Babylon
we sat and wept at the memory of Zion.
2 On the poplars there we had hung up our harps.
3 For there our gaolers had asked us to sing them a song,
our captors to make merry,
'Sing us one of the songs of Zion.'
4 How could we sing a song of Yahweh on alien soil?
5 If I forget you, Jerusalem,
may my right hand wither!
6 May my tongue remain stuck to my palate,
if I do not keep you in mind,
if I do not count Jerusalem the greatest of my joys.
7 Remember, Yahweh, to the Edomites' cost,
the day of Jerusalem, how they said,
'Down with it! Rase it to the ground!'
8 Daughter of Babel, doomed to destruction,
a blessing on anyone who treats you as you treated us,
9 a blessing on anyone
who seizes your babies and shatters them against a rock!
Excerpt from THE NEW JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1985 by
Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division
of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.
Harps in the Poplars