Rise up, O Lord; O God, lift up your hand; do not forget the oppressed. Why do the wicked renounce God, and say in their hearts, ‘You will not call us to account’? But you do see! Indeed you note trouble and grief, that you may take it into your hands;the helpless commit themselves to you; you have been the helper of the orphan. Break the arm of the wicked and evildoers; seek out their wickedness until you find none. The Lord is king for ever and ever; the nations shall perish from his land. O Lord, you will hear the desire of the meek; you will strengthen their heart, you will incline your ear to do justice for the orphan and the oppressed, so that those from earth may strike terror no more. (Psalm 10: 12-17)

I often neglect the oppressed. I am aware of those who suffer tyranny. I know some who suffer from terrible depression. I meet others who have had the creativity and confidence with which they were born squeezed out.

Am I wicked? Seek out my wickedness until you find none. You have given me eyes, let me see. You have given me ears, let me hear. May I become your agent in opposing oppression. May my arm become your arm.

Alone I can do little. Together with others of faith I can achieve a great deal. But whether alone or not inspire and lead me to do what I can. Strengthen my heart and allow me to bring others to you and your promise of wholeness.