There’s a Boulder in the Road. Is this the hand of god?

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Song 6, Psalm 119:29-39


No one had come to work

By noon.

Even at the snail’s pace 

Of mountain life

This was unusual.

Shivam hiked down the slope 

to Sushil’s shop. 

Legs sturdy enough for the adventure

He texted, complete with click  

A massive boulder slid 

Onto our narrow slip of road.

Paths both up and down 

Blocked. 

A car tumbled down the steep ravine,

Trapping a Tibetan family in mud.

The rain had not stopped after it had done its damage.

It was cold and wet.

This was the situation.


I turned and tried to pray--

The situation seemed to demand some response.

The psalmist sees a blocked road

As all about lying, law, judgment

And fear.

Throw in some revelation.

The expected response.

Certainly I am not startled by any surprise

Or innovation.

He loves his roadmap to 

The High and Dry.


My path allows me to

Simply put one foot

After the other

Perhaps forced to stop

While resourceful Indian men

Dig a Tibetan family out of the mud.

Not the first time we can thank Indians 

In a time of need.


Call it anything you like.

The mother was frightened

And grateful when they were 

Able to pry open the car door.

I am grateful.

In the mountain way

We will just drive around the boulder

Until something changes again.

It always does.


Psalm 119:29-39, The Message Bible

Barricade the road that goes Nowhere; grace me with your clear revelation.

I choose the true road to Somewhere, I post your road signs at every curve and corner.

I grasp and cling to whatever you tell me; God, don't let me down!

I'll run the course you lay out for me if you'll just show me how.

God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course.

Give me insight so I can do what you tell me - my whole life one long, obedient response.

Guide me down the road of your commandments; I love traveling this freeway!

Give me a bent for your words of wisdom, and not for piling up loot.

Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets, invigorate me on the pilgrim way.

Affirm your promises to me - promises made to all who fear you.

Deflect the harsh words of my critics - but what you say is always so good.

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