In the Friday night Kabbalat Shabbat service we hear the words: “the thunder of the mighty waters”, describing God’s greatness. Beyond the sound of the “mighty waters” and the “breakers of the sea” … “YHWH is majestic on high” (Ps. 93:4). But when I hear these words I feel something else. These words arouse in me a sense of my own smallness in the face of the unceasing deluge of daily news that engulfs me like mighty waters – confusing news, exhausting reports. And so, I suggest the following personal prayer:
“In the face of the mighty waters surrounding me today, it is hard to breathe. It is hard to believe. It is hard to hope.
But that is precisely the challenge.
That is precisely what is called for – breath, belief and hope.
God, give me the strength to float above the abyss that swirls all around me.
Grant me the spirit and the soul, the strength and the ability to compose a new song:
Above the thunder of the mighty waters – mighty are the powers of humankind to build and to be rebuilt. Again and again. And most importantly, not to despair.
Then, I will say: Majestic on high is YHWH.”
