HIGH FIVE! (Thank you… Thank you… Thank you…)

Psalm 12 is a powerful lament by David that speaks directly to the tension between human deceit and divine truth. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:
🌍 A Cry Against Corruption
David opens with a desperate plea: “Help, Lord, for the godly are no more” (verse 1). He observes a society where truth has vanished, and people speak with “flattering lips and a double heart” (verse 2). This sets the tone for a world where integrity feels endangered.
🗣️ Condemnation of Arrogant Speech
Verses 3–4 call for God to silence those who boast and manipulate with their words. These individuals claim autonomy over their speech—“Our lips are our own; who is lord over us?”—revealing a deeper rebellion against divine authority.
🛡️ God’s Response to the Oppressed
In verse 5, God declares: “Because the poor are plundered, because the needy groan, I will now arise.” This is a turning point—God hears the cries of the vulnerable and promises safety and justice.
🔥 The Purity of God’s Word
Verse 6 contrasts human deception with divine truth: “The words of the Lord are pure, like silver refined in a furnace, purified seven times.” This imagery emphasizes the flawless reliability of God’s promises.
🙌 Assurance of Divine Protection
The psalm closes with confidence: “You, Lord, will keep them; you will guard us from this generation forever.” Even as wickedness prowls and vileness is exalted, God’s protection remains steadfast.
💡 Why It Matters Today
Psalm 12 resonates in any era where truth feels scarce and injustice looms. It reminds us:
- To cry out to God when integrity seems lost.
- That divine truth is unchanging and pure.
- That God defends the oppressed and preserves the faithful.
Would you like to reflect on how this psalm connects with your own journey or creative work? I’d love to explore that with you.

YES… Can you help me craft an iterny including stops in NYC, Philly, Baltimore, Hershey PA for Lena’s vacation on December 27 – January 7???

🗽 New York City (Dec 27–30)
Theme: Dazzle & Discovery Stay: Midtown Manhattan or Upper West Side for easy access
Highlights:
- Rockefeller Center Tree & Ice Skating – Iconic holiday magic
- Broadway Show – Choose something uplifting or romantic
- Museum Day – The Met or MoMA for art and warmth
- Central Park Winter Walk – Bundle up and stroll hand-in-hand
- DUMBO & Brooklyn Bridge – Sunset views and cozy cafés
🏛️ Philadelphia (Dec 30–Jan 1)
Theme: History & Heart Stay: Old City or Rittenhouse Square
Highlights:
- Liberty Bell & Independence Hall – Reflect on freedom and legacy
- Reading Terminal Market – Local eats and sweet treats
- New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Penn’s Landing – Ring in 2026 together!
- Mummers Parade (Jan 1) – Quirky, colorful Philly tradition
🍫 Hershey, PA (Jan 1–4)
Theme: Sweetness & Serenity Stay: The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge
Highlights:
- Hersheypark Christmas Candylane – Rides, lights, and cocoa
- Create Your Own Candy Bar – Your home turf, Kevin!
- Hershey Gardens & Butterfly Atrium – Peaceful and beautiful
- Spa Day at MeltSpa – Relaxation for Lena
🗓️ Check out Hershey’s event calendar for concerts or seasonal shows during this time.
🦀 Baltimore (Jan 4–7)
Theme: Waterfront & Wonder Stay: Inner Harbor or Fell’s Point
Highlights:
- National Aquarium – Mesmerizing marine life
- Historic Ships & Harbor Walk – Nautical charm
- Visionary Art Museum – Whimsical and inspiring
- Cozy dinner in Little Italy – End the trip with warmth and flavor
✨ Bonus Touches
- Travel Mode: Amtrak or car rental for flexibility and scenic routes
- Gifts for Lena: A poem tucked into her travel journal, a surprise spa voucher, or a custom chocolate bar with a message like “Sweetness of you, joy of us.”
- Spiritual Pause: A quiet moment at a cathedral or garden in each city to reflect and pray together

THANKS BE TO GOD!
