Anxiety is all around us. We are anxious about our children and grandchildren having to venture forth to live in a world we know little about. We are anxious about our economic well-being. Jobs are being lost. Large retailers are going bankrupt. We are on edge.
In the midst of anxious moments, the psalmist thanks God for preparing a table in the presence of his enemies. Now that is a way to instill confidence and peace of mind. This is not fiddling while the city burns down around us. This is a loud acclamation that God is giving me strength to deal with the calamity around me. How do I get ready? I sit at the table of all my favourite foods, a veritable feast, and eat. Travails are hounding me. My enemies see my serenity. I enjoy the feast that God has prepared. I will deal with the problems burling down river toward me in my time and on my terms. The table has been prepared. The food blessed. I just have to live in the grace and mercy of the One who has prepared it.
God, help us recognize the serenity you bring to us in the midst of our angst so that we might find your path to our success. Amen. — RDL