happy birthday, gen!

(Psalm 27 (The Message), for my sister and friend, Gen, who is celebrating life in God. Happy birthday. We love you. Greetings from your families and friends in Singapore, Canada, and Philippines. )

Light, space, zest— that’s God!
   So, with him on my side I’m fearless,
      afraid of no one and nothing.

When vandal hordes ride down
      ready to eat me alive,
   Those bullies and toughs
      fall flat on their faces.

When besieged,
      I’m calm as a baby.
   When all hell breaks loose,
      I’m collected and cool.

I’m asking God for one thing,
      only one thing:
   To live with him in his house
      my whole life long.
   I’ll contemplate his beauty;
      I’ll study at his feet.

That’s the only quiet, secure place
      in a noisy world,
   The perfect getaway,
      far from the buzz of traffic.

God holds me head and shoulders
      above all who try to pull me down.
   I’m headed for his place to offer anthems
      that will raise the roof!
   Already I’m singing God-songs;
      I’m making music to God.

You’ve always been right there for me;
      don’t turn your back on me now.
   Don’t throw me out, don’t abandon me;
      you’ve always kept the door open.

I’m sure now I’ll see God’s goodness
      in the exuberant earth.
   Stay with God!
      Take heart. Don’t quit.
   I’ll say it again:
      Stay with God.