On June 27, 1997, my family suffered a tragedy when my first cousin’s 21-year-old grandson was murdered-shot down in cold blood and left for dead on the streets-as a result of his efforts to help a young woman at the center of a fist fight. As I thought of his tragic, untimely death and the difficult funeral that my family had to face, I began to think not only as a member of the family, but also as a minister. For as ministers, we are often called upon to bring words of comfort, to find the words that will express what has been inexpressible, to give words of hope. I began to ponder what I would have said if I had been called upon to say something to my family, but the more I thought, the more I realized that there are really no words that will take away the deep pain that comes along with such tragedy. I also thought about the multitude of tragedies and crises that face our neighborhoods and even members of this community for which there are no words adequate to soothe the aching heart and dispel the storm clouds that hang over us.

Still, the words of a Walter Hawkins song speak to me in the midst of the tragedies we face today. In part, it says, “If you ever need a friend that sticks closer than any brother, I recommend Jesus for he’s that kind of friend.”

In this passage from one of my favorite Psalms, David is reflecting on a time when he found himself on the run with few places to turn and few friends. As he looks back with gratitude, he speaks these words:

“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. Look to him, and be radiant; so your faces shall never be ashamed. This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord, and was saved from every trouble. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. O taste and see that the Lord is good; happy are those who take refuge in him. O fear the Lord, you his holy ones, for those who fear him have no want. The young lions suffer want and hunger, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.”                                                                    Psalm 34:1-10 (NRSV)

His experience causes him to recommend the Lord. “O taste and see that the Lord is good; happy are those who take refuge in him.” For the next few meditations, I will focus on this passage as we consider these three words: I RECOMMEND JESUS.

Stay tuned! Next: Why I recommend Jesus.

-Dollie Howell Pankey