Psalm 35 v1:
Plead my cause, O Lord, with those who strive with me; Fight against those who fight against me.
Originally this Psalm of David reflected his troubled life of battles and personal attacks. Most of us don’t have that kind of life- so I’m using a gardening example to bring it alive. If you love roses, you may recognise these wee beasties chomping on Rosa Glauca – which is, fortunately, quite a tough and resilient rose.
These are the famished larvae of the Sawfly- left unchecked, they will strip the foliage in hours. They characteristically elevate and wave their rear end when threatened, presumably looking more aggressive and less palatable. The roses cannot fight them off- they need help, either from hungry blue tits or a less hungry but more powerful gardener. And I have to say that the local blue tits are needing to up their game. They seem to prefer the fat balls and suet/insect pellets: I suppose it’s the avian equivalent of going to KFC for fast food! (Other chicken cookers are available…)
So tomorrow I must return to the scene of the crime and take decisive action. My roses need me.
This is, of course, where we reconnect with the psalm. David is in trouble (again) and calls out to the Head Gardener (who created Eden) for assistance and deliverance. The key words in v3 are these: “I am” which is the Old Testament description of the Lord Almighty; the God who was, and is, and is to come. “I am who I am” declared God. David reminds himself that he has the privilege and right to call for Divine help from the “God who Saves.”
“I shall tell myself again and again,” says David. “The Lord is my Saviour and Deliverer.”
Say to my soul, “I am your salvation.” (Psalm 35 v3)
And that, my friend, is our privilege as well. When under attack by sawfly or Satan, our help not only comes from the Lord- IT IS the Lord who will rescue, defend, and be our Eternal Saviour. Call on Him- and He will deliver.
The Reflectionary 