November 24th

“They scoff and speak with malice;
   loftily they threaten oppression.
They set their mouths against heaven,
   and their tongues range over the earth.” Psalm 73:8-9

strutting around as if the very sky
was woven from their bragging,
they let their words drift like
unwanted whispers into
the ears of the weary.
pushing past the humble and the hurting,
their tongues tiptoe down alleys
where mercy never goes.
yet,
uncertain and insignificant,
we will try to stand, letting
the noise of their certainty
pass us like a chill breeze,
and in the silence which follows,
we are reminded that no boasting
can deafen your whisper of hope,
no shadow casting pride
can overcome your light of love.
so, slowly, steadily, faithfully,
we will draw in deep breaths of grace,
taking assurance in your promise
that, however loud and enticing,
every lie will crumble like dust
and every arrogant voice
will fall silent before your Word.

© 2025 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman