Psalm 38: ³ There is no soundness in my flesh because of your indignation; there is no health in my bones because of my sin… ²¹ Do not forsake me, O Lord; O my God, do not be far from me; ²² make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation. 

In my bible translation this psalm is described as a plea for healing from a penitent sinner. These two verses illustrate this. In the Old Testament things like illness or misfortune are understood to be consequences of sin. The psalmist is suffering in body with “no health in my bones”.

I wrote the other day that I had bronchitis. Seems like it’s getting a little better. Still coughing and such, but chest congestion is easing a bit. If you’ve ever had bronchitis you know that the coughing itself can be exhausting. My ribcage is sore from the contractions. Thanks to all of you who have been praying for me.

This morning I’m drawn to the end of v.21 “O my God, do not be far from me…”. There is an understanding that proximity to God can be healing in itself. Not just physical healing, but spiritual healing. A healing of the soul. What kind of healing do you need from the Lord today? O Lord, as we cry out to you this day, make haste to help us, for you are our hope and salvation. Amen.