In the Desert, Saltiness--Nov. 9, 2010

When times are good, and we are comfortable,
we assume you have shown us your favor, O God.
All is right with the world, and we are at ease.
(If it occurs to us, we will praise your name.)

Suddenly you hide your face,
suddenly we are dismayed.
What looked like the Garden of Eden
has turned into desolate wilderness.

Whether we count ourselves small or great,
you call us to praise you in the Garden—
and likewise in the wilderness. There,
in the desert, may we find our saltiness.

Lectionary Readings
Psalms 123, 146, 30, 86
Joel 2:3-11
Revelation 19:1-10
Luke 14:25-35

Selected verses
Psalm 30:6-7
As for me, I said in my prosperity,
      “I shall never be moved.”
By your favor, O LORD,
      you had established me as a strong mountain;
you hid your face;
      I was dismayed.

Joel 2:3b
Before [the locusts] the land is like the garden of Eden,
      but after them a desolate wilderness,
      and nothing escapes them.

Revelation 19:5
And from the throne came a voice saying,
      “Praise our God,
            all you his servants,
      and all who fear him,
            small and great.”

Luke 14:34
“…Salt is good; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? … ” [Jesus to the crowds traveling with him]