Of David.
Adonai is my light and my salvation: whom should I fear?
Adonai is the stronghold of my life: whom should I dread?
When evildoers approached me to devour my flesh —my adversaries and my foes— they stumbled and fell. Though an army camp besieges me, my heart will not fear. Though war breaks out against me, even then will I be confident.
One thing have I asked of Adonai, that will I seek:
to dwell in the House of Adonai all the days of my life,
to behold the beauty of Adonai, and to meditate in His Temple.
For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His sukkah, conceal me in the shelter of His tent, and set me high upon a rock. Then will my head be high above my enemies around me.
In His Tabernacle I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy. I will sing, yes, sing praises to Adonai.
Hear, Adonai, when I call with my voice, be gracious to me and answer me. To You my heart says: “Seek My face.” Your face, Adonai, I seek. Do not hide Your face from me. Do not turn Your servant away in anger. You have been my help. Do not abandon me or forsake me, O G-d my salvation. Though my father and my mother forsake me, Adonai will take me in.
Teach me Your way, Adonai, and lead me on a level path— because of my enemies. Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes. For false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence. Surely I trust that I will see the goodness of Adonai in the land of the living.
Wait for Adonai. Be strong, let Your heart take courage, and wait for Adonai.
- Psalm 27
As Sukkot draws near, this year is bittersweet. With Israel still at war, we pray for Adonai to shelter His people. He is faithful. Though our lives here are as temporary as a sukkah, He is our shield and everpresent help. Even in war and suffering, He is mightier than any enemy and we can always take refuge in His presence. He never forgets the needs of His children and is merciful to bend down and hear our prayers. May this time of rejoicing also be a time of prayer for those seeking His protection. May His truth continue to teach us as we run to our stronghold and stand upon the rock of our salvation. Take courage, seek His face, and fear not.
