We start asking "Why?" as toddlers... and as the years unfold, we have larger, more pressing things for which we ask why. One of the things I appreciate about the Psalms are the many emotions expressed, and the many times why appears. One of the visual imaging techniques that works for me reading the Bible is configuring the words so that I can see their emphasis and then hear them differently...

It starts with opening my Bible and taking a pencil in hand and circling or otherwise marking the words or phrases that jump out or speak to my heart. Next, they are written in a form, like a poem or a list of their own.

Here's an example for Psalm 71... appropriate for this week of sorrows upon sorrow.

...from Psalm71:3-8

Be my rock of refuge...

my rock...

my fortress...

my God...

my hope...

my confidence...

my strong refuge...

Notice that it starts and ends in the same place with the word "strong" added- what's in between- the progression from my rock of refuge to my strong refuge reflects God at work in us.

Then, pray what is written and reflect on where in this moment God is speaking...

This week we are sharing the Express Worship which our Inner Circle subscribers get each week. It's still in a beta form, yet we would love for you to join us for a about the price of a cup of coffee each month. Just click on the Go Deeper image.

As we continue to walk through these days of sorrow upon sorrow, here's Fernando Ortega to start this day (just the music)...

God of all comfort, Be near us as we comfort others. Draw us into prayer as each minute passes. Whisper to us what to say to others. Give us courage to do things uncomfortable. Fill us with Your Spirit. Move us one step closer to being more than just OneOrlando... make us OneChurch.

Words of Paul from Ephesians 4:2-6

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called;

one Lord, one faith, one baptism;

one God and Father of all,

who is over all and through all and in all.