In previous verses, the writer of Psalm 22 reminds us that God listens to those who suffer. Here, the psalmist continues by showing us what we do with that gift; we invite others who are suffering to eat and praise God.

A friend of mine traveled to Haiti not long ago and worked with children there. She recalled that at one meal the children were being served a simple bowl of food. She was struck that all the children waited until everyone had food. They were waiting, she was told, to make sure everyone had something to eat. If not, they would have shared.

Those who have suffered know how to treat others who are suffering. Perhaps this is why our faith is tied to suffering. When we know what it means to be hungry, we are more likely to feed those who are hungry. And if we know what it means to believe in the midst of that hunger, we also know how to share the love of God.

By Stephen Mazingo from D365