In continuing with learning to pray the psalms for the concerns that we experience, I would offer Psalm 57 as another one that can guide us in praying in a variety of circumstances. While it could well be used for a pastor in distress or a congregation, I want you to hear it as a prayer for the many homeless in our country.
Be merciful to the homeless, O God, be merciful to the homeless, for in you the soul of the homeless can take refuge, until the destroying storms pass by.
The homeless of our country cry to God most High, to God who fulfills God’s purpose for the vulnerable in our society.
God will send from heaven and save the homeless, God will put to shame those who trample on them. God will send forth God’s steadfast love and God’s faithfulness.
The homeless lie down among the powerful that greedlily devour human prey; their teeth are spears and arrows, their tongues sharp swords.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let your glory be over all the earth.
The powerful in society set a net for the homeless steps; the soul of the homeless is bowed down. The powerful dig pits in the path of homeless people, but they have fallen into it themselves.
The heart of the homeless is steadfast, O God, their heart is steadfast. The homeless will sing and make melody. Awake the soul of your homeless people. Awake, O harp and lyre! The soul of the homeless will awake the dawn.
Your homeless people will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; The homeless will sing praises to you among the nations.
For your steadfast love is as high as the heavens; your faithfulness extends to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let your glory be over all the earth.
Take that as a prayer the next time you work in a homeless shelter and feel the power of praying such a prayer along with your neighbors who are homeless.
