Verizon asked that question in an advertising campaign over twenty years ago. The question resonated deeply with consumers because we all want to be heard no matter how far away we go. Verizon promised customers superior connections and a strong network. Craving connection is a basic human need.

In Psalm 61, the psalmist cries out to God in desperation.

1Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer;
2 from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I,
3 for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.
(Psalm 61:1-3 ESV)

To Be Heard and Guided

The psalmist begs to be heard because he feels weak and so far away from God. (vs 1)

Is the term, “end of the earth,” more about a geographical location or state of my heart and soul? When I come to end of my own resources I know I need to be led by God. I need to be guided to firm ground in uncertain times, the rock. (vs 2)

A refuge of God’s faithful protection is revealed as I remember all the ways God has provided this before. (vs 3)

At times when I feel disconnected from God, I find myself depleted and desperate. God promises the ultimate connectivity and strong network of His people. Life’s busy pace and unending demands pull me away from that connection and network. Like the psalmist, I become disoriented, isolated, and weak. I must choose to be intentional to seek out a faith community where I can belong and be supported in my relationship with the Lord.

 

Camping Out  

4 Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings! Sela
5 For you, O God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
(Psalm 61:4-5 ESV)

Have you ever spent time camping? There is something about being out and away from the city and sitting under the stars that gently reminds each of us of the immensity of the universe. Those stars are the same ones God pointed out to Abraham when He promised to make his descendants numbered like all those thousands of stars. I am one of those stars in the sky. I have been made part of God’s family through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Spend time, star gazing and see how it changes your perspective.

6 Prolong the life of the king; may his years endure to all generations!
7 May he be enthroned forever before God; appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him!
8 So will I ever sing praises to your name, as I perform my vows day after day.
(Psalm 61:6-8 ESV)

The Now and Not Yet Kingdom

As I shift my perspective while looking at the stars in the sky, I am reminded that Jesus, the ultimate king will reign forever. Jesus’ reign over this world stands between the now and not yet.

Even when I don’t see it, He sits on His throne and has all authority. However, not everyone understands this, just yet. Many eyes are blind and many minds are confused.

The Bible makes it clear that Jesus Christ sits at God’s right hand ruling right in our current age. Jesus Christ is also coming to judge the living and the dead. That is the hope, the faith, and the confession of every believer.

And this is my reason to praise Him, stand in a posture of hope, and fulfill what I have promised to Him.

God can hear me now, and He heard me then, and He will continue to be one I call out to.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for hearing my cry. Thank You for listening and responding to my prayers. No matter where I go, I can call out to You and You will lead me on a path to strength and guidance. I run to You as my shelter and know I find refuge in You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.