"Lifetime Ingredients" by Ron Whited
“I will listen to what God the Lord says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants—but let them not turn to folly. Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land. Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good … ” (Psalm 85:8–12a).
LIFETIME INGREDIENTS—
This Psalm contains several keywords that have played a part in my life. These are things I can celebrate this Advent because of the Holy Child and His gifts to me:
“... favor to your land ...”
I lived/live in lands of abundant favor: North Kansas City, MO; Stockton, CA; Augusta, GA; Ansbach, Germany; Vung Tau, Vietnam; Kansas City, MO; Gladstone, MO; Liberty, MO. God’s provision was exactly what I always needed.
“Forgiveness and Salvation”
Kansas City Youth for Christ summer camp of 1960 was the place I invited Christ into my life. Temple Baptist Church, 1964, became the place where I was able to celebrate that event through baptism.
“Love and faithfulness meet together ...”
The passage indicates that faithfulness comes from the earth (me). I have found that my degree of faithfulness is directly tied to my level of love towards God and others.
“... righteousness and peace kiss each other.”
The passage indicates that righteousness comes from heaven (God). So, when I allow the righteousness of God to fill me, I experience peace.
“The Lord will indeed give what is good ...”
This Advent is unlike any I have experienced. A pandemic, economic distress, and political turmoil divert our attention from the eternal realization that God has come to humankind. But we can focus on favor, forgiveness, salvation, faithfulness, and righteousness instead. These reflections move us toward His peace that surpasses all things. Joy to the world!