“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”  (Psalm 20:7)

It seems that learning to acknowledge our need for God, our Creator, has been a problem since Adam and Eve told God, “Not your will, but our will be done!”  Recently, while I was thinking about the Costa Concordia tragedy, I came across King David’s bold statement in Psalm 20:7 above.  The Costa Concordia disaster has been compared to the Titanic, 100 years ago, both testimonies to the dangers of human pride and arrogance.   The Concordia, carrying over 4,200 people, was one of the largest, most luxurious cruiseliners built in recent history.  Designers, owners, crew, and passengers alike had utmost confidence in its safety and reliability – nothing this great or powerful could fail!  It was a virtual memorial to human technological ingenuity! 

Yet, in a matter of minutes, human error, lack of preparation, and panic resulted in the loss of the ship, and the loss of human life!  A modern parable of David’s observations - “Some trust in chariots and some in horses . . .”

This month we embark on our annual Lenten journey.  This is a time to turn from the distractions created by human pride and self-sufficiency, and reflect on the meaning of the cross and what God has done for us and our salvation.  Paul wrote, “The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1:18).  Do we really trust “the message of the cross”?  Do we acknowledge the inadequacy of human solutions to the deepest needs of our souls, and acknowledge our need for God’s solution?  Have we surrendered “all” to the God who loves us and wants the very best for us in this life and for eternity? 

At the end of our Lenten journey, at the foot of the cross and in view of an empty tomb, may we be able to say with renewed confidence and hope:  “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”  - Pastor Dale