Gems from the Psalms – Day 14
Keep calm, be patient
Um(Imi)bhalo weBhayibheli
Ihubo 37
In South Africa, we celebrate Human Rights Day. Human Rights Day marks the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations. The day focuses attention on human rights issues.
Ever since sin entered the world, there has been a constant clash between good and evil. Wickedness can be found both in the corridors of power and in every other sphere of human activity.
One becomes aware of despotic leaders who abuse their powers and reduce their nations to poverty, before going into exile with millions amassed in foreign banks.
It is the abuse inflicted on individuals, particularly women and children, that touch the heart strings most and can have us seething with righteous anger. Sometimes, the abuse is so heinous, so utterly evil and depraved, that one itches to avenge it. The psalmist warns against such vigilante action – “it leads only to evil”.
Do not fret, we are told. Instead, we are exhorted to be patient and wait for the Lord to act. The Lord has his own timetable. We can remain confident that he is in control. Evil will be countered and justice will ultimately triumph.
