. . . robed in majesty . . .

Madonna found in a Cathedral in the Philippines.

Lately, I've reestablished the practice of writing out the psalms as a way to focus on God. This morning I meditated and wrote out Psalm 93. I typically use the New Revised Standard Version translation of the Bible, and the pronouns for God are generally male. So, when I read through, I will either change them to her or just say God.

Today, I chose female pronouns.

The Lord is Queen, she is robed in majesty;

the Lord is robed; she is girded with strength.

She has established the world it shall never be moved;

Your throne is established from of old;

you are from everlasting... [typical reading here]

There are times when I read Scripture where my mind becomes enthralled - it is as though I am standing before the very majesty of the Lord - today was one such a day.

The image of God was stunning, a bronze woman with golden waves of hair that tumbled around her shoulder. Her robe was alight as the light shone from within and on her. And her belly swelled with child - Through her, this great image of strength, the world and humanity birthed into existence.

I googled key words, black woman - pregnant - golden hair - bronze body - beyonce! (yes, beyonce) to see what images artists may have contributed. . .

And this is what google gave me:

Kevin Winter/Getty Images for NARAS

Now I don't think Beyonce is God, but she reflects the image of God. This is a strong, gorgeous, nurturing, loving, confident in her skin, proud of the life these bodies can create, woman. The image of woman as divine is breathtaking. She took to the stage during the Grammy's in 2017 and exposed the beauty of life given to us through God. It did not hinder her - it exposed the awe-inspiring gift of human life.

This is a majestic image - and we know that God is more majestic than even this visual representation.

I encourage everyone to think beyond one image - immerse yourself into the Holy words, substitute the pronouns, and let God work within your mind and heart a different image of what God could look like.

Selah