Sunday, March 10
Note: Writers on Sundays were asked to address the power of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs in their lives.
“On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.” Luke 4:11
As with the devil’s first two temptations, Jesus did not accede to the third – to throw himself from the pinnacle of the temple – even though the devil enticed Jesus, saying: “He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you” (v. 10) and “On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.” (v. 11)
Jesus sternly cautioned the devil: “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” (v. 12)
The eagle’s wings image is oft-used in the Bible, calling to mind that, when its young are first fledged, the eagle is said to assist them in their flight by flying beneath them, so that, if necessary, the young may settle upon its wings or back. God intends for us to know that he has likewise bestowed the same tender and powerful care upon us.
The hymn On Eagle’s Wings, written by Father Joncas in 1979, has become one of my favorites. Its four verses and refrain, based on Psalm 91, is included as No. 77 in our Chalice Hymnal. Most frequently heard at funerals, it offers great comfort knowing that “He will raise you up on eagle’s wings…and hold you in the palm of his hand.”
Prayer: Holy Comforter, my heart, mind, soul, and body are at peace knowing that you hold me in the palm of your hand. Amen.
– David Walker