A few weeks ago, the Jubilee Team went on a hike to the top of Luke mountain. Surrounded by plants, trees, and beautiful views, we were challenged to write a “Psalm 2020.” As I wrestle with what it means to live and breathe freely at Ferncliff during a time of worldly devastation, I find God in the tension between them.

Psalm 2020

When we sit in the shade or fly down the Shady Chute.
We find life in being outside
When the sun rises over the lake or sets beyond the cabins,
We praise you for another day
When we sit on the swings or swing in a hammock
We rest in your presence
The watch comes off
And time stands still
We call out in joy
Praising God and God’s creation

For this, O LORD
We give praise

As the coronavirus sweeps through, we acknowledge pain
The loss of innocent lives, disproportionately black and brown
We stand in confusion and lament
Why, O LORD, does this carry on
All of humanity stands in tension
Distinguishing between safety and freedom
The watch comes off
And time stands still
We cry out in discomfort
How long will this last?

For this, O LORD
We ask for your presence

From the hills to the valleys
From the high points to the depths
God is with us
We are made in Creator’s image
Nature remains in tension between stability and growth;
Rooted and flying at the same time
The watch comes off
And time stands still
The wind sings in the trees
As my heart joins in creation’s song

For this, O LORD
We give thanks

Erin Tolar is a Jubilee Team Member here at Ferncliff this summer. Read more about the Jubilee Team here.