A Psalm for Kermit Gosnell

I’ve steered clear of commenting on the horrific trial of abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell. I’ve known about the story for some time, but just couldn’t bring myself to focus on the horrors in which he was engaged.

Much has been made of the lack of media coverage. My friends here at Patheos Evangelical have done much to change that. Rightly so.

For those not familiar with the case, I point you here, somewhat reluctantly, because the crimes he allegedly committed against helpless infants is revolting and worthy of the worst punishment known to man.

I mention Gosnell today simply because I came across a Psalm in my daily reading that reminded me of him. It is rare that we get such a clear picture of what God calls a “wicked man” in Scripture. But Gosnell — and his ilk — would certainly seem to qualify.

 A Psalm for Kermit Gosnell

I share this selection from Psalm 10:8-18. And I think this must be the kind of monster David had in mind.

He sits in ambush in the villages; in hiding places he murders the innocent. His eyes stealthily watch for the helpless; he lurks in ambush like a lion in his thicket; he lurks that he may seize the poor; he seizes the poor when he draws him into his net.

The helpless are crushed, sink down, and fall by his might. He says in his heart, “God has forgotten, he has hidden his face, he will never see it.” 

Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up your hand; forget not the afflicted.

Why does the wicked renounce God and say in his heart, “You will not call to account”?

But you do see, for you note mischief and vexation, that you may take it into your hands; to you the helpless commits himself; you have been the helper of the fatherless.

Break the arm of the wicked and evildoer; call his wickedness to account till you find none.

The LORD is king forever and ever; the nations perish from his land.

O LORD, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more. (Ps. 10:8-18)