Psalm 34:15 - Berthetta's Neck Brace

Berthetta was a troubled soul. She had lived alone for decades. Friends were referred to more in the past tense than present tense. Her face was permanently scored with lines of worry and apprehension. That unhappy face faithfully showed up at church every Sunday.

Frequently she would sigh for no apparent reason--especially if someone was in earshot. When asked how she was doing, she relished recounting the week's latest dramas and traumas. Every silver cloud had a black lining.

Those who didn't outright avoid her would attempt to turn conversations into something positive. Inevitably, they'd end up excusing themselves to talk with someone else. Her crestfallen countenance would fall further.

When too many people avoided her too many weeks in a row, she had a fool-proof way of getting attention: a well-worn, not-too-clean, cloth-covered foam neck brace. For newer people who'd never seen the beloved neck brace, it begged the question: "Berthetta! What happened?" And she would give a vague response of having wrenched her neck. Again. 

The church leadership offered to pay for professional counseling for her depression. She was insulted and incensed. Apparently a medical doctor was unnecessary as well--not as long as she still had the neck brace to wear "as needed."

It's easy to see the folly of Berthetta. But what do we do to get God's attention?
Whatever we do, it's as unnecessary as that beloved neck brace.

"The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and His ears are open to their cry."
(Psalm 34:15, New American Standard Bible, 1995)

God in heaven,
Deliver us from the antics we go through trying to make You turn in our direction--as if it's even necessary! Give us courage to rest in
how You listen for us, 
how you watch over us,
how you watch out for us.
                    In Jesus' name, Amen.