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The word “selah” occurs 74 times in
the Hebrew Bible (71 times in Psalms, 3 times in Habakkuk). Though
uncertain of its meaning, when we read carefully it accomplishes
its purpose—we pause and consider. The Lexham Bible Dictionary
defines it as “most likely
a
musical or liturgical term. The term may refer to silence, pause,
or an interlude[1]”
It’s the time of year to do just
that—think about what has occurred and contemplate what
will occur in the coming new day. Perhaps this year, it’s time
we take a hard stop as we wait upon the Lord.
How do we make sense of a year filled
with turmoil and confusion? Illness,
death, businesses shuttered, acts of prejudice on display.
Peaceful protests coopted for lawless agendas. Law enforcement
questioned and accused on every hand. Front line responders and
medical teams overloaded but continue to serve. Addictions,
despair, suicidal thoughts are on the rise as COVID continues. And
too often this year, the church has been divided about best
actions to take. Conspiracy theories abound; videos are texted and
emailed that help create confusion or even division. But are they
true? HARD STOP.
We can know the One who IS
Truth—Jesus
(John 14:6).
As we move into 2021, remember we are called higher—to “set our
minds on things above, not on things on the earth…”
(Col. 3:2)
As followers of Jesus,
let’s not join the “accuser”
(Rev. 12:10),
but help each other remember to be quick in prayer, to serve, to
help lift our families, neighbors, and communities above an angry
mob mentality. Let’s love like Jesus. SELAH—STOP, CONSIDER,
PAUSE. Jesus suffered accusation, beating and bleeding from a
rugged cross but said “FATHER FORGIVE THEM for they know not what
they do.” Jesus led with FORGIVENESS, grace, and love. May we
become more like Him.
“Lord, help us bring Your light and
love to a needy world.”
John 3:16 (MSG):
16 "This is how much
God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And
this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in
him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.
Let’s hold to His unchanging hand,
receive His unchanging grace, and embrace a year of new
beginnings—and let’s give His love away. We pray that 2021 will
bring days of new joy and renewed hope on your journey through
life.
Remember, Jesus loves you.
SELAH.
[1]
Barry, J. D., Bomar, D., Brown, D. R., Klippenstein, R.,
Mangum, D., Sinclair Wolcott, C., … Widder, W. (Eds.).
(2016).
Selah. In
The Lexham Bible
Dictionary. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.
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