Sojourner Truth

“Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law. I am a sojourner on the earth; hide not your commandments from me! My soul is consumed with longing for your rules at all times.” (Psalm 119:18-20 ESV)

Isabella Baumfree was born into slavery.  She served several masters until she escaped to freedom in 1826. Shortly thereafter, she became a Christian. She changed her name to Sojourner Truth, because she felt called to go forth and speak truth. For the rest of her life, Sojourner Truth preached the gospel and spoke out against slavery, oppression, and inequality. As followers of Christ, we are all called to be truth speaking sojourners.

A ‘sojourner’ is a person who lives in a foreign land temporarily in order to be instructed. When we go to a foreign country, the immigration officials ask us the purpose of our visit. Most of us travel for vacation or business. On the contrary, sojourners live near different kinds of people in order to gain a new perspective. Speaking truth, especially when you are a foreigner, can be risky. Those who occupy positions of power do not like being challenged. Those who stand up against oppression, corruption, and injustice, especially if they are from a marginalized group, are often mistreated. Thus, truth speaking sojourners have to be brave and bold.

Gratitude Vision

Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders. (Psalm 119:18 MSG)

Yesterday I was grumpy. I complained about everything. When those around me tried to make me feel better, I became even more cranky. I read the above verse last night. I didn’t know what to make of it. I copied it down for further thought and went to sleep. This morning, as I was sitting across from my husband at breakfast, I found myself thinking: Thank You, Lord. Then, I noticed the coffee and toast in front of me, the warmly lit room, our dog waiting patiently for the last bite of my toast, and the same phrase kept popping into my mind...Thank you, Lord.

Nothing had changed from the day before when I had the same toast, with my husband, at the same table, in the same room, with the dog waiting at my feet. But my perspective had shifted ever-so-slightly. It was like my eyes were opened to God’s daily miracle-wonders. I was given the gift of gratitude vision...at least for a few minutes. Unfortunately, it faded once I got up from the table. The busyness of the day took over and my mind returned to focusing on all I had to get done. About mid-afternoon, I remembered the verse I had copied down. Then I prayed: Lord, open my eyes. Let me notice your handiwork. Grant me supernatural senses and teach me to appreciate all that You do. Amen.