Where Pride Resides

Reflections
June 14, 2009

According to scholars Psalm 20 is attributed to David. It was most probably a sacrifice liturgy offered in hope for strength and vitality in battle. The opening is a clear indication of prayer. “May the Lord answer you in your day of trouble. May God grant your hearts desire and fulfill all your plans.” Rather than enter into a misguided argument over who God favors in war, I would prefer to consider the spiritual grounding of one who prepares for conflict with a song and prayer. There is an adage which says, “If you don’t have a plan for success, then plan on failure.” Of course there is an equally powerful statement about the futility of over planning attributed to the late singer John Lennon which reads, “We make plans and God laughs.” Whether we fall on one side or the other in this equation or somewhere in between this much is clear. The reality of life is effective human existence requiring a certain amount of discipline order and preparation to accomplish most any task great or small.

What we seek to accomplish is, more often than not tied in some manner or measure, to what some call core values. Elements of life we hold in high regard and value as extraordinary. When we talk about family, education, faith, sustainable living, financial security or meaningful work, we are naming our core values. Thoughts and elements to live toward, because they stir in us something high and hopeful.

My favorite line of Psalm 20 is verse seven.”Some take pride in chariots, and some in their horses; but we take pride in the name of the Lord our God.” While we may not be entering battle in the same way David was, still each day we must go forth into life knowing that there are those who will oppose us simply because it is the desire of their heart. How much more essential it is to seek the High and Holy presence which guides and girds us.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601