Psalm 28 (NRSV)
1 To you, O Lord, I call;
my rock, do not refuse to hear me,
for if you are silent to me,
I shall be like those who go down to the Pit.
2 Hear the voice of my supplication,
as I cry to you for help,
as I lift up my hands
toward your most holy sanctuary.a
Lord,
Please hear me, hear my plea for help. You have entrusted a great opportunity into my hands, a chance to contribute to the lives of men and women who have responded to your call to serve as leaders in Christ’s church. What a remarkable crowd this is, these who have heard your invitation and answered by giving their lives to the ministry of Christ and church. What a remarkable vocation this is, representing your people in prayer to you and representing you to your people in proclamation! And I have been invited to be of service in this holy arena within your Kingdom. If I feel a little unworthy and perhaps more than a little daunted, please understand.
This morning, I ask for help in being a good steward of the ministry that has been given to me. Grant me wisdom to do those things that will best serve your people in ministry and, through the ministers, serve your church and Christ.
Only 6 days to Christmas and pastors are preparing Christmas and Christmas Eve worship services. The only thing I can offer today is a prayer. Let the spirit of Christ, whose life we celebrate in this season, empower all that is done so that your people might know, love, and serve him more fully.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask for the special grace that you need from God in this season.
Give thanks for women and men who are serving as ministerial leaders in our churches and communities.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Heb your innermost sanctuary
Friday, December 19, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
psalm 27
Psalm 27 (NRSV)
4 One thing I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
to live in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to behold the beauty of the Lord,
and to inquire in his temple.
5 For he will hide me in his shelter
in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will set me high on a rock.
6 Now my head is lifted up
above my enemies all around me,
and I will offer in his tent
sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make melody to the Lord.
7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud,
be gracious to me and answer me!
8 “Come,” my heart says, “seek his face!”
Your face, Lord, do I seek.
9 Do not hide your face from me.
Do not turn your servant away in anger,
you who have been my help.
Do not cast me off, do not forsake me,
O God of my salvation!
10 If my father and mother forsake me,
the Lord will take me up.
11 Teach me your way, O Lord,
and lead me on a level path
because of my enemies.
12 Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries,
for false witnesses have risen against me,
and they are breathing out violence.
13 I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living.
14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord!
[1]
Lord,
In one line, the poet is full of confidence and in the next he is not so sure. In one line, he knows that you will protect him and in the next he is begging for protection as though his firm confidence is losing its grip.
Confidence: “For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble….”
Less confidence: “Do not turn your servant away in anger, you who have been my help. Do not cast me off, do not forsake me, O God of my salvation!”
Confidence Again: “If my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will take me up.”
So why is this important to me? Why do I see this so quickly? It is as though my heart is looking into the mirror image of itself: faith and less faith, confidence and less confidence and not confidence and then confidence again. I know all about that!
So, Lord, I say to myself as the poet said, “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! “
For you I wait, seeking strength for the season and courage for all that meets me today.
It’s the Advent season and the economy is going into the tank. Never in my life have I seen such a conspiracy between the corrupt and the incompetent in high places. And the irony is this, if a man steals a purse, he can go to jail. When a man drives a company into the ditch and thousands of people lose jobs and health care and pensions, that man gets a golden parachute! I know, it’s not the same but there ought to be some kind of accountability somewhere. From those, to whom much is given, much is required.
Lord, it’s all above me. Help us please,
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God for the courage and faith that you need for today.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
4 One thing I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
to live in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to behold the beauty of the Lord,
and to inquire in his temple.
5 For he will hide me in his shelter
in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will set me high on a rock.
6 Now my head is lifted up
above my enemies all around me,
and I will offer in his tent
sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make melody to the Lord.
7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud,
be gracious to me and answer me!
8 “Come,” my heart says, “seek his face!”
Your face, Lord, do I seek.
9 Do not hide your face from me.
Do not turn your servant away in anger,
you who have been my help.
Do not cast me off, do not forsake me,
O God of my salvation!
10 If my father and mother forsake me,
the Lord will take me up.
11 Teach me your way, O Lord,
and lead me on a level path
because of my enemies.
12 Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries,
for false witnesses have risen against me,
and they are breathing out violence.
13 I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living.
14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord!
[1]
Lord,
In one line, the poet is full of confidence and in the next he is not so sure. In one line, he knows that you will protect him and in the next he is begging for protection as though his firm confidence is losing its grip.
Confidence: “For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble….”
Less confidence: “Do not turn your servant away in anger, you who have been my help. Do not cast me off, do not forsake me, O God of my salvation!”
Confidence Again: “If my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will take me up.”
So why is this important to me? Why do I see this so quickly? It is as though my heart is looking into the mirror image of itself: faith and less faith, confidence and less confidence and not confidence and then confidence again. I know all about that!
So, Lord, I say to myself as the poet said, “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! “
For you I wait, seeking strength for the season and courage for all that meets me today.
It’s the Advent season and the economy is going into the tank. Never in my life have I seen such a conspiracy between the corrupt and the incompetent in high places. And the irony is this, if a man steals a purse, he can go to jail. When a man drives a company into the ditch and thousands of people lose jobs and health care and pensions, that man gets a golden parachute! I know, it’s not the same but there ought to be some kind of accountability somewhere. From those, to whom much is given, much is required.
Lord, it’s all above me. Help us please,
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God for the courage and faith that you need for today.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Monday, December 15, 2008
Psalm 27
Psalm 27 (NRSV)
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the strongholda of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evildoers assail me
to devour my flesh—
my adversaries and foes—
they shall stumble and fall.
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war rise up against me,
yet I will be confident.
Lord,
The poet prays, “Yet I will be confident”. And his confidence is grounded in the reality that “the Lord is the stronghold of my life.”
Today I pray with the poet, “You are the stronghold of my life. You are the one on whom I rely. You are the source of strength and wisdom and grace.
The days come, as they came for the poets of the Psalms, that are filled with danger and very good reasons to be afraid. How many do we know who are: Facing death, gravely ill, fearful for a child or spouse or parent, struggling with the current economic melt-down, jobless or homeless or barely squeaking by in some other way, caught in webs spun by immoral and unethical people. The harsh truth is that bad things really do happen to good people.
The poets knew well the harsh realities of life in this broken and sinful world and still this poet prays, “The Lord is the stronghold of my life…Yet I will be confident.” Let this be my prayer today.
As we move towards Christmas morning and the celebration of Jesus’ birth, we are aware of your greater remedy for the darkness in this world. We are aware of the one who opened, in fresh ways, the doors of heaven so that we might again experience the grace of your spirit and the salvation that you want for all.
In the days before Christmas, I say again to you, You are the stronghold of my life and I will be confident.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Remember the hymn that says, “Give to the winds thy fears, hope and be undismayed….”
Ask for the assurance of the presence the gives confidence for today.
Name 5 people who are struggling with life’s harsh realities and ask God to be present to each one.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Or refuge
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the strongholda of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evildoers assail me
to devour my flesh—
my adversaries and foes—
they shall stumble and fall.
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war rise up against me,
yet I will be confident.
Lord,
The poet prays, “Yet I will be confident”. And his confidence is grounded in the reality that “the Lord is the stronghold of my life.”
Today I pray with the poet, “You are the stronghold of my life. You are the one on whom I rely. You are the source of strength and wisdom and grace.
The days come, as they came for the poets of the Psalms, that are filled with danger and very good reasons to be afraid. How many do we know who are: Facing death, gravely ill, fearful for a child or spouse or parent, struggling with the current economic melt-down, jobless or homeless or barely squeaking by in some other way, caught in webs spun by immoral and unethical people. The harsh truth is that bad things really do happen to good people.
The poets knew well the harsh realities of life in this broken and sinful world and still this poet prays, “The Lord is the stronghold of my life…Yet I will be confident.” Let this be my prayer today.
As we move towards Christmas morning and the celebration of Jesus’ birth, we are aware of your greater remedy for the darkness in this world. We are aware of the one who opened, in fresh ways, the doors of heaven so that we might again experience the grace of your spirit and the salvation that you want for all.
In the days before Christmas, I say again to you, You are the stronghold of my life and I will be confident.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Remember the hymn that says, “Give to the winds thy fears, hope and be undismayed….”
Ask for the assurance of the presence the gives confidence for today.
Name 5 people who are struggling with life’s harsh realities and ask God to be present to each one.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Or refuge
Friday, December 12, 2008
Psalm 26
Psalm 26 (NRSV)
6 I wash my hands in innocence,
and go around your altar, O Lord,
7 singing aloud a song of thanksgiving,
and telling all your wondrous deeds.
8 O Lord, I love the house in which you dwell,
and the place where your glory abides.
9 Do not sweep me away with sinners,
nor my life with the bloodthirsty,
10 those in whose hands are evil devices,
and whose right hands are full of bribes.
11 But as for me, I walk in my integrity;
redeem me, and be gracious to me.
12 My foot stands on level ground;
in the great congregation I will bless the Lord.
[1]
Lord,
Help me to pray with the poet, “I walk in my integrity.” In the midst of all that life brings, all that is wonderful and all that is painful, grant me the grace to remember who I am; one of your sons, a follower of Jesus Christ, an “Image-of-God” human being, one who enjoys the grace that you give. Help me to never forget the two great commandments of life, to love you with all of my being and to love my neighbor as I love myself. Keep me grounded in the community of Your Spirit and grant me the grace of joyful worship.
The poet prays, “Do not sweep me away with sinners.” I pray, forgive me my sin and do not abandon me because of my mistakes and misdeeds. Grow me to be the man that you intended in my birth so many years ago.
And in all things, I will remember to say “thank you” both in public and private places.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to remember your core identity as a child of God.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
6 I wash my hands in innocence,
and go around your altar, O Lord,
7 singing aloud a song of thanksgiving,
and telling all your wondrous deeds.
8 O Lord, I love the house in which you dwell,
and the place where your glory abides.
9 Do not sweep me away with sinners,
nor my life with the bloodthirsty,
10 those in whose hands are evil devices,
and whose right hands are full of bribes.
11 But as for me, I walk in my integrity;
redeem me, and be gracious to me.
12 My foot stands on level ground;
in the great congregation I will bless the Lord.
[1]
Lord,
Help me to pray with the poet, “I walk in my integrity.” In the midst of all that life brings, all that is wonderful and all that is painful, grant me the grace to remember who I am; one of your sons, a follower of Jesus Christ, an “Image-of-God” human being, one who enjoys the grace that you give. Help me to never forget the two great commandments of life, to love you with all of my being and to love my neighbor as I love myself. Keep me grounded in the community of Your Spirit and grant me the grace of joyful worship.
The poet prays, “Do not sweep me away with sinners.” I pray, forgive me my sin and do not abandon me because of my mistakes and misdeeds. Grow me to be the man that you intended in my birth so many years ago.
And in all things, I will remember to say “thank you” both in public and private places.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to remember your core identity as a child of God.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
psalm 26
Psalm 26 (NRSV)
1 Vindicate me, O Lord,
for I have walked in my integrity,
and I have trusted in the Lord without wavering.
2 Prove me, O Lord, and try me;
test my heart and mind.
3 For your steadfast love is before my eyes,
and I walk in faithfulness to you.a
4 I do not sit with the worthless,
nor do I consort with hypocrites;
5 I hate the company of evildoers,
and will not sit with the wicked.
6 I wash my hands in innocence,
and go around your altar, O Lord,
7 singing aloud a song of thanksgiving,
and telling all your wondrous deeds.
Lord,
This poet is making his case. He needs your help, and so do I, and he is pleading his worthiness. Look at his claim: integrity, trust, and faithfulness. And what has he avoided? He has steered clear of the worthless, hypocrites, evildoers and the wicked. And then he claims the merit of worship – singing and testimony. This is really good stuff, excellent behavior, and virtue worthy of God’s reward.
But, isn’t there always a “but”? we know that if this poet is David, it was not always true. He did some pretty nasty things, things that deserve the label of “moral depravity”, do you remember Bathsheba and Uriah? Maybe he wrote this before the fall.
I don’t want to belittle the virtues and behavior that he claims. Integrity, trust, faithfulness are good things and refusing to succumb to the influence of bad people is always commendable. Lord, I pray that those virtues will be mine. But I also know that while there is nothing in my history to match the moral depravity that David demonstrated with Bathsheba and Uriah, neither can I claim untainted virtue.
So, Lord I am left to pray, help me to be as virtuous as I can be and forgive me when I fail. While I want to stand before you with good character and some achievements and the claim of contributions made to your world, I know that I will forever be indebted to your forgiveness and grace. I know that I will forever be dependent on the grace of Christ and for that grace I pray.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to do the right thing in the right way at the right time.
Ask God’s forgiveness for your failures.
Rest securely in the Gospel of Christ.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
a Or in your faithfulness
1 Vindicate me, O Lord,
for I have walked in my integrity,
and I have trusted in the Lord without wavering.
2 Prove me, O Lord, and try me;
test my heart and mind.
3 For your steadfast love is before my eyes,
and I walk in faithfulness to you.a
4 I do not sit with the worthless,
nor do I consort with hypocrites;
5 I hate the company of evildoers,
and will not sit with the wicked.
6 I wash my hands in innocence,
and go around your altar, O Lord,
7 singing aloud a song of thanksgiving,
and telling all your wondrous deeds.
Lord,
This poet is making his case. He needs your help, and so do I, and he is pleading his worthiness. Look at his claim: integrity, trust, and faithfulness. And what has he avoided? He has steered clear of the worthless, hypocrites, evildoers and the wicked. And then he claims the merit of worship – singing and testimony. This is really good stuff, excellent behavior, and virtue worthy of God’s reward.
But, isn’t there always a “but”? we know that if this poet is David, it was not always true. He did some pretty nasty things, things that deserve the label of “moral depravity”, do you remember Bathsheba and Uriah? Maybe he wrote this before the fall.
I don’t want to belittle the virtues and behavior that he claims. Integrity, trust, faithfulness are good things and refusing to succumb to the influence of bad people is always commendable. Lord, I pray that those virtues will be mine. But I also know that while there is nothing in my history to match the moral depravity that David demonstrated with Bathsheba and Uriah, neither can I claim untainted virtue.
So, Lord I am left to pray, help me to be as virtuous as I can be and forgive me when I fail. While I want to stand before you with good character and some achievements and the claim of contributions made to your world, I know that I will forever be indebted to your forgiveness and grace. I know that I will forever be dependent on the grace of Christ and for that grace I pray.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to do the right thing in the right way at the right time.
Ask God’s forgiveness for your failures.
Rest securely in the Gospel of Christ.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
a Or in your faithfulness
Monday, December 8, 2008
psalm 25
Psalm 25:19-22 (NRSV)
19 Consider how many are my foes,
and with what violent hatred they hate me.
20 O guard my life, and deliver me;
do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.
21 May integrity and uprightness preserve me,
for I wait for you.
22 Redeem Israel, O God,
out of all its troubles.
[1]
Lord,
How many are my foes? And how many of them live within my own psyche? Fear, anger, ambivalence, guilt, shame, faithlessness, ancient memories that still get in the way of fruitful living, how many are my foes? As Jesus exorcised demons from the lives of those whom he physically touched, take my inner foes away.
And the external foes, there are a few. Help me to remember that most of my external foes are people who have been taken over by their own personal internal enemies.
But there are others, women and men who hate or ignore you and have little use for me because of my intention to be faithful to you. Selfishness and stinginess and the unfailing quest for power and money have driven some to be full participants in the causes of evil.
So, with the ancient poet, I pray, “guard my life and deliver me… for I take refuge in you.”
Lord, you have given us two great weapons in the struggles of life, integrity and uprightness. Too often these “Kingdom Instruments” have been too little used and too often ignored. Too often, integrity and uprightness have been under valued and underdeveloped. Too often, perhaps, that has been true of me.
Nurture those great virtues in my own soul. I have no expectation of achieving any kind of perfection but if you could just grow those great virtues a little within me, perhaps the world will be a little blessed.
Take care of your church and your people God; take really good care of them.
A personal word: Saturday I attended a wedding and Sunday afternoon I returned to the same Christmas decorated sanctuary for a funeral. Take care of you people, O God, take really good care of our people.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray, in the manner of the ancient poet, to be safeguarded from all of your foes.
Ask God to nurture the habits of integrity and uprightness in your life.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you to God.”
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
19 Consider how many are my foes,
and with what violent hatred they hate me.
20 O guard my life, and deliver me;
do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.
21 May integrity and uprightness preserve me,
for I wait for you.
22 Redeem Israel, O God,
out of all its troubles.
[1]
Lord,
How many are my foes? And how many of them live within my own psyche? Fear, anger, ambivalence, guilt, shame, faithlessness, ancient memories that still get in the way of fruitful living, how many are my foes? As Jesus exorcised demons from the lives of those whom he physically touched, take my inner foes away.
And the external foes, there are a few. Help me to remember that most of my external foes are people who have been taken over by their own personal internal enemies.
But there are others, women and men who hate or ignore you and have little use for me because of my intention to be faithful to you. Selfishness and stinginess and the unfailing quest for power and money have driven some to be full participants in the causes of evil.
So, with the ancient poet, I pray, “guard my life and deliver me… for I take refuge in you.”
Lord, you have given us two great weapons in the struggles of life, integrity and uprightness. Too often these “Kingdom Instruments” have been too little used and too often ignored. Too often, integrity and uprightness have been under valued and underdeveloped. Too often, perhaps, that has been true of me.
Nurture those great virtues in my own soul. I have no expectation of achieving any kind of perfection but if you could just grow those great virtues a little within me, perhaps the world will be a little blessed.
Take care of your church and your people God; take really good care of them.
A personal word: Saturday I attended a wedding and Sunday afternoon I returned to the same Christmas decorated sanctuary for a funeral. Take care of you people, O God, take really good care of our people.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray, in the manner of the ancient poet, to be safeguarded from all of your foes.
Ask God to nurture the habits of integrity and uprightness in your life.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you to God.”
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Friday, December 5, 2008
psalm 25
Psalm 25:11-18 (NRSV)
11 For your name’s sake, O Lord,
pardon my guilt, for it is great.
12 Who are they that fear the Lord?
He will teach them the way that they should choose.
13 They will abide in prosperity,
and their children shall possess the land.
14 The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him,
and he makes his covenant known to them.
15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord,
for he will pluck my feet out of the net.
16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
17 Relieve the troubles of my heart,
and bring mea out of my distress.
18 Consider my affliction and my trouble,
and forgive all my sins.
[1]
Lord,
We live between promise and peril. With the poet I pray, “pardon my guilt, for it is great.” Peril: the possibility that misdeeds and mistakes will ultimately lead to destruction. And promise: we live with the assurance of pardon. We live between the two.
And this amazing promise, those who walk with the Lord will abide in prosperity – some day.
But the poet is not yet living in the state of prosperity. All is not well. He writes, “I am lonely and afflicted.” His heart is troubled and he is distressed. And he is pleading for forgiveness.
Peril and promise, despair and hope, fear and faith, the poet gives it all to you Lord believing, at least hoping, that you will receive the contradictions of his heart with grace and that you will bless him with your presence.
You know the peril in which we now live and we beg your help. Restore the prosperity that you promise.
You know the despair of so many of our neighbors. Restore your hope within us.
You know the fear that distorts our ability to see the world clearly and relate to one another lovingly. Grow within us the faith that leads to salvation.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Confess your guilt and fear to God and ask for the pardon and faith that you need.
Attend to the promise of prosperity and allow that promise to grow within your heart and mind.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Or The troubles of my heart are enlarged; bring me
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
11 For your name’s sake, O Lord,
pardon my guilt, for it is great.
12 Who are they that fear the Lord?
He will teach them the way that they should choose.
13 They will abide in prosperity,
and their children shall possess the land.
14 The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him,
and he makes his covenant known to them.
15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord,
for he will pluck my feet out of the net.
16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
17 Relieve the troubles of my heart,
and bring mea out of my distress.
18 Consider my affliction and my trouble,
and forgive all my sins.
[1]
Lord,
We live between promise and peril. With the poet I pray, “pardon my guilt, for it is great.” Peril: the possibility that misdeeds and mistakes will ultimately lead to destruction. And promise: we live with the assurance of pardon. We live between the two.
And this amazing promise, those who walk with the Lord will abide in prosperity – some day.
But the poet is not yet living in the state of prosperity. All is not well. He writes, “I am lonely and afflicted.” His heart is troubled and he is distressed. And he is pleading for forgiveness.
Peril and promise, despair and hope, fear and faith, the poet gives it all to you Lord believing, at least hoping, that you will receive the contradictions of his heart with grace and that you will bless him with your presence.
You know the peril in which we now live and we beg your help. Restore the prosperity that you promise.
You know the despair of so many of our neighbors. Restore your hope within us.
You know the fear that distorts our ability to see the world clearly and relate to one another lovingly. Grow within us the faith that leads to salvation.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Confess your guilt and fear to God and ask for the pardon and faith that you need.
Attend to the promise of prosperity and allow that promise to grow within your heart and mind.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Or The troubles of my heart are enlarged; bring me
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Thursday, December 4, 2008
psalm 25
Psalm 25 (NRSV)
8 Good and upright is the Lord;
therefore he instructs sinners in the way.
9 He leads the humble in what is right,
and teaches the humble his way.
10 All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness,
for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.
Lord,
Because you are good, you give instruction to sinners and you lead the humble. Your goodness causes you to reach out to sinners, to the lost, to the mistaken and to the willfully wrong. You do not keep yourself separated from sinners but reach into the orbits of their lives with wisdom and grace and the offer of pardon. You are always whispering in the sinners’ ears, “There is a better way.” You go to the bars and the boardrooms, into the streets and the bedrooms of the broken, into the lives of those incarcerated in jails and chained by habits of futility and self-destruction. You give instruction to sinners.
And who can receive the gift of instruction? Only the humble! You lead the humble, you teach the humble. What you offer to all sinners is received by the humble, by sinners who are open to the possibility that they may be wrong and in need of fresh instruction and guidance. Only to those who realize the need for guidance and grace are able to receive it, or so implies the poet.
So Lord, I pray for renewed humility. Open my soul to a new awareness of your presence and grace and help me to go where you lead and to embody that which you teach.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Speak your sin to God and ask for the pardon that he has promised.
Ask for the courage to be humble enough to receive the grace of God’s guidance and instruction.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
8 Good and upright is the Lord;
therefore he instructs sinners in the way.
9 He leads the humble in what is right,
and teaches the humble his way.
10 All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness,
for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.
Lord,
Because you are good, you give instruction to sinners and you lead the humble. Your goodness causes you to reach out to sinners, to the lost, to the mistaken and to the willfully wrong. You do not keep yourself separated from sinners but reach into the orbits of their lives with wisdom and grace and the offer of pardon. You are always whispering in the sinners’ ears, “There is a better way.” You go to the bars and the boardrooms, into the streets and the bedrooms of the broken, into the lives of those incarcerated in jails and chained by habits of futility and self-destruction. You give instruction to sinners.
And who can receive the gift of instruction? Only the humble! You lead the humble, you teach the humble. What you offer to all sinners is received by the humble, by sinners who are open to the possibility that they may be wrong and in need of fresh instruction and guidance. Only to those who realize the need for guidance and grace are able to receive it, or so implies the poet.
So Lord, I pray for renewed humility. Open my soul to a new awareness of your presence and grace and help me to go where you lead and to embody that which you teach.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Speak your sin to God and ask for the pardon that he has promised.
Ask for the courage to be humble enough to receive the grace of God’s guidance and instruction.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
psalm 25
Psalm 25 (NRSV)
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust;
do not let me be put to shame;
do not let my enemies exult over me.
3 Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame;
let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
6 Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love,
for they have been from of old.
7 Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
according to your steadfast love remember me,
for your goodness’ sake, O Lord!
Lord,
Even as I ask for guidance, I ask as one who knows that he has no right to ask. I seek your guidance because you have invited me to do so. You have made the offer. You have asked me to accept the gift that comes from you.
As I extend my hand to receive the gift of guidance from you, I am mindful, with the poet, of the sins of youth and maturity and I ask that you will continue to be merciful. Do not allow my mistakes, either old or new, to get in the way of following you as the One who knows the way through this life.
Lord, your mercy and kindness are grounded deeply in the essence of your character. You are God and you are merciful and it is with this assurance that I ask that you will remember me. “According to your steadfast love, remember me.”
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Give thanks that mercy, kindness and pardon form the shape of God’s heart.
Ask God to be your companion through the course of your day and week.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust;
do not let me be put to shame;
do not let my enemies exult over me.
3 Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame;
let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
6 Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love,
for they have been from of old.
7 Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
according to your steadfast love remember me,
for your goodness’ sake, O Lord!
Lord,
Even as I ask for guidance, I ask as one who knows that he has no right to ask. I seek your guidance because you have invited me to do so. You have made the offer. You have asked me to accept the gift that comes from you.
As I extend my hand to receive the gift of guidance from you, I am mindful, with the poet, of the sins of youth and maturity and I ask that you will continue to be merciful. Do not allow my mistakes, either old or new, to get in the way of following you as the One who knows the way through this life.
Lord, your mercy and kindness are grounded deeply in the essence of your character. You are God and you are merciful and it is with this assurance that I ask that you will remember me. “According to your steadfast love, remember me.”
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Give thanks that mercy, kindness and pardon form the shape of God’s heart.
Ask God to be your companion through the course of your day and week.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Psalm 25
Psalm 25 (NRSV).
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
Lord,
Here’s my struggle. I am convinced that the fundamental principles of your ways, your paths can be known through a prayerful walk with Jesus and the study of scriptures that finally bear witness to him. Mercy, kindness, justice, love, forgiveness are the trail markers that we follow in our walk with you.
What is harder is to know the individual path that you have for each of us. Have you created an individual trail for each of us to follow and how can we find the signs? I can follow Jesus and learn about mercy and justice and love but I can not read the Bible and know specifically where you would lead me each day. I guess what I would love to have is a kind of personal cosmic spiritual GPS system.
The poet wrote that he waits for you all day long. It seems that in some spiritual way, you are personally the spiritual GPS system in our personal walk with you.
And yet, if that is so, why is that so many who claim to be perfectly tuned in to you walk so many different kinds of trail? And why is it that too many seem too often to be at war with one another, all for the love of Jesus? Why is it that so many who claim to be disciples of Jesus are willing to damage and sometimes destroy others who claim to be disciples of Jesus – all for the love of Jesus? And why are some so willing to disobey the commandment of Jesus that we love one another and that we love even our enemies all the while claiming to serve him?
So Lord, teach me your path. Grant me your truth. Indeed I wait for you. And I dare to even pray for that spiritual GPS system that would lead me along the life trail that you wish me to follow.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to teach you God’s ways so that you might follow God’s path.
And seek pardon for those times in which, in the passion to be right, you have violated the commandment to love neighbor and enemy.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
Lord,
Here’s my struggle. I am convinced that the fundamental principles of your ways, your paths can be known through a prayerful walk with Jesus and the study of scriptures that finally bear witness to him. Mercy, kindness, justice, love, forgiveness are the trail markers that we follow in our walk with you.
What is harder is to know the individual path that you have for each of us. Have you created an individual trail for each of us to follow and how can we find the signs? I can follow Jesus and learn about mercy and justice and love but I can not read the Bible and know specifically where you would lead me each day. I guess what I would love to have is a kind of personal cosmic spiritual GPS system.
The poet wrote that he waits for you all day long. It seems that in some spiritual way, you are personally the spiritual GPS system in our personal walk with you.
And yet, if that is so, why is that so many who claim to be perfectly tuned in to you walk so many different kinds of trail? And why is it that too many seem too often to be at war with one another, all for the love of Jesus? Why is it that so many who claim to be disciples of Jesus are willing to damage and sometimes destroy others who claim to be disciples of Jesus – all for the love of Jesus? And why are some so willing to disobey the commandment of Jesus that we love one another and that we love even our enemies all the while claiming to serve him?
So Lord, teach me your path. Grant me your truth. Indeed I wait for you. And I dare to even pray for that spiritual GPS system that would lead me along the life trail that you wish me to follow.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to teach you God’s ways so that you might follow God’s path.
And seek pardon for those times in which, in the passion to be right, you have violated the commandment to love neighbor and enemy.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Psalm 25
Psalm 25 (NRSV).
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
Lord,
Here’s my struggle. I am convinced that the fundamental principles of your ways, your paths can be known through a prayerful walk with Jesus and the study of scriptures that finally bear witness to him. Mercy, kindness, justice, love, forgiveness are the trail markers that we follow in our walk with you.
What is harder is to know the individual path that you have for each of us. Have you created an individual trail for each of us to follow and how can we find the signs? I can follow Jesus and learn about mercy and justice and love but I can not read the Bible and know specifically where you would lead me each day. I guess what I would love to have is a kind of personal cosmic spiritual GPS system.
The poet wrote that he waits for you all day long. It seems that in some spiritual way, you are personally the spiritual GPS system in our personal walk with you.
And yet, if that is so, why is that so many who claim to be perfectly tuned in to you walk so many different kinds of trail? And why is it that too many seem too often to be at war with one another, all for the love of Jesus? Why is it that so many who claim to be disciples of Jesus are willing to damage and sometimes destroy others who claim to be disciples of Jesus – all for the love of Jesus? And why are some so willing to disobey the commandment of Jesus that we love one another and that we love even our enemies all the while claiming to serve him?
So Lord, teach me your path. Grant me your truth. Indeed I wait for you. And I dare to even pray for that spiritual GPS system that would lead me along the life trail that you wish me to follow.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to teach you God’s ways so that you might follow God’s path.
And seek pardon for those times in which, in the passion to be right, you have violated the commandment to love neighbor and enemy.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
Lord,
Here’s my struggle. I am convinced that the fundamental principles of your ways, your paths can be known through a prayerful walk with Jesus and the study of scriptures that finally bear witness to him. Mercy, kindness, justice, love, forgiveness are the trail markers that we follow in our walk with you.
What is harder is to know the individual path that you have for each of us. Have you created an individual trail for each of us to follow and how can we find the signs? I can follow Jesus and learn about mercy and justice and love but I can not read the Bible and know specifically where you would lead me each day. I guess what I would love to have is a kind of personal cosmic spiritual GPS system.
The poet wrote that he waits for you all day long. It seems that in some spiritual way, you are personally the spiritual GPS system in our personal walk with you.
And yet, if that is so, why is that so many who claim to be perfectly tuned in to you walk so many different kinds of trail? And why is it that too many seem too often to be at war with one another, all for the love of Jesus? Why is it that so many who claim to be disciples of Jesus are willing to damage and sometimes destroy others who claim to be disciples of Jesus – all for the love of Jesus? And why are some so willing to disobey the commandment of Jesus that we love one another and that we love even our enemies all the while claiming to serve him?
So Lord, teach me your path. Grant me your truth. Indeed I wait for you. And I dare to even pray for that spiritual GPS system that would lead me along the life trail that you wish me to follow.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to teach you God’s ways so that you might follow God’s path.
And seek pardon for those times in which, in the passion to be right, you have violated the commandment to love neighbor and enemy.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Psalm 25
Psalm 25 (NRSV)
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust;
do not let me be put to shame;
do not let my enemies exult over me.
3 Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame;
let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
Lord,
Today, I trust my life into your father-like care. I choose to trust you with my my good intentions, good deeds, mistakes, sin, frustrations, successes, conversations, travel, work and rest – all I trust into your tender care and keeping.
I confess that I completely understand the poet when he first declares his trust in you and then quickly adds, “do not let me be put to shame.” Don’t let my trust be misplaced. Don’t let me down.” Such ambivalence in faith, I fully understand and ask to be delivered from it.
But, on the other hand, if there were no uncertainty, would it be the faith that you ask? OK, I’m out of my depth here. Is faith without some sense of doubt, really faith? Do you really want a faith that squelches all questions and silences all uncertainty? Are not those the very faith based stimulants that stir the heart and soul to seek more intently after you? I suspect that I’ll never know. So take me as I am, full of faith that has its fair portion of uncertainty and grant me some comfort in knowing that the poet seems to share my quandary.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray that God will stir trust within your heart.
And pray that God will stir you to seek after God more intently.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust;
do not let me be put to shame;
do not let my enemies exult over me.
3 Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame;
let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
Lord,
Today, I trust my life into your father-like care. I choose to trust you with my my good intentions, good deeds, mistakes, sin, frustrations, successes, conversations, travel, work and rest – all I trust into your tender care and keeping.
I confess that I completely understand the poet when he first declares his trust in you and then quickly adds, “do not let me be put to shame.” Don’t let my trust be misplaced. Don’t let me down.” Such ambivalence in faith, I fully understand and ask to be delivered from it.
But, on the other hand, if there were no uncertainty, would it be the faith that you ask? OK, I’m out of my depth here. Is faith without some sense of doubt, really faith? Do you really want a faith that squelches all questions and silences all uncertainty? Are not those the very faith based stimulants that stir the heart and soul to seek more intently after you? I suspect that I’ll never know. So take me as I am, full of faith that has its fair portion of uncertainty and grant me some comfort in knowing that the poet seems to share my quandary.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray that God will stir trust within your heart.
And pray that God will stir you to seek after God more intently.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Monday, October 27, 2008
psalm 24
Psalm 24 (NRSV)
7 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
8 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
he is the King of glory. Selah
[1]
Lord,
Just as the gates of the ancient fortress were lifted for the friend and stranger to enter, so I ask that the gates of my mind and heart will be lifted today so that you may find you place within me. You are the Lord of hosts, the Lord of all that is; be my Lord today.
Help me to be the person of integrity and love that you created me to be.
As you live within, help me to hear your voice, the Inner Voice of your Spirit, giving direction and encouragement, courage and peace, wisdom and compassion to the movements of my day.
You are the King of Glory
You are the King of Glory
You are the King….
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to lead you through your days and nights, to be the Lord of your heart and mind.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
7 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
8 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
he is the King of glory. Selah
[1]
Lord,
Just as the gates of the ancient fortress were lifted for the friend and stranger to enter, so I ask that the gates of my mind and heart will be lifted today so that you may find you place within me. You are the Lord of hosts, the Lord of all that is; be my Lord today.
Help me to be the person of integrity and love that you created me to be.
As you live within, help me to hear your voice, the Inner Voice of your Spirit, giving direction and encouragement, courage and peace, wisdom and compassion to the movements of my day.
You are the King of Glory
You are the King of Glory
You are the King….
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to lead you through your days and nights, to be the Lord of your heart and mind.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Friday, October 24, 2008
psalm 24
Psalm 24 (NRSV)
1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
the world, and those who live in it;
2 for he has founded it on the seas,
and established it on the rivers.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
who do not lift up their souls to what is false,
and do not swear deceitfully.
5 They will receive blessing from the Lord,
and vindication from the God of their salvation.
6 Such is the company of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.a Selah
Lord,
What high standards your have! The people who are invited to stand next to you have:
Clean hands
Pure heart
True worship
Honesty
I am grateful for the power of forgiveness. I have, at one time or another, violated every one of those standards and I trust that you have cleansed the dark stain from my heart and soul. If I meet your standards, it is only because you have given me chance after chance after chance to try again.
I am grateful for the power of aspiration. The poet describes the way that I want to live. It is my intention to live according to the highest spiritual and moral standards.
I am grateful for the examples of those who have embodied these virtues and demonstrate for all who will see the inherent rightness of this way of life.
I am grateful for the saints who have brought light to me life.
I am especially grateful for Jesus who is the embodiment of these holy virtues.
For the promises of your presence,
For the promise of your blessings,
For countless blessings already experienced,
For your eternal grace,
Thank you.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God for the grace needed to live according to the virtues described in this Psalm.
Ask God for forgiveness for your spiritual and moral failures.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Gk Syr: Heb your face, O Jacob
1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
the world, and those who live in it;
2 for he has founded it on the seas,
and established it on the rivers.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
who do not lift up their souls to what is false,
and do not swear deceitfully.
5 They will receive blessing from the Lord,
and vindication from the God of their salvation.
6 Such is the company of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.a Selah
Lord,
What high standards your have! The people who are invited to stand next to you have:
Clean hands
Pure heart
True worship
Honesty
I am grateful for the power of forgiveness. I have, at one time or another, violated every one of those standards and I trust that you have cleansed the dark stain from my heart and soul. If I meet your standards, it is only because you have given me chance after chance after chance to try again.
I am grateful for the power of aspiration. The poet describes the way that I want to live. It is my intention to live according to the highest spiritual and moral standards.
I am grateful for the examples of those who have embodied these virtues and demonstrate for all who will see the inherent rightness of this way of life.
I am grateful for the saints who have brought light to me life.
I am especially grateful for Jesus who is the embodiment of these holy virtues.
For the promises of your presence,
For the promise of your blessings,
For countless blessings already experienced,
For your eternal grace,
Thank you.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God for the grace needed to live according to the virtues described in this Psalm.
Ask God for forgiveness for your spiritual and moral failures.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Gk Syr: Heb your face, O Jacob
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
psalm 24
Psalm 24 (NRSV)
1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
the world, and those who live in it;
2 for he has founded it on the seas,
and established it on the rivers.
Lord,
The earth is yours by the rights of creation. The earth:
The mountains, rivers, plains and seas;
The oil and natural gas, the top soil and water rights;
Cattle, chickens, tuna, and the legs of crab and frog;
And all of the acreage, it all belongs to you according to the rights of creation. You were before the earth and you will be after the earth and when all else is done, it’s yours.
The people of the world are yours:
Men of every hue and women of every language and children of every size, all are yours.
The oil sheiks of the middle east and the moguls of Wall Street;
Generals and privates and civilians who pray not to become collateral damage;
Plumbers and carpenters, lawyers and doctors, preachers and beggars;
We all belong to you.
Now this is the hard part. Some of us do not know to whom we belong. We see ourselves as the masters of our own universe. And some of us do not know that the others belong to you. We simply cannot bring ourselves to believe that the damaged children of Iraq and the people of Iran and Sudan, and Moslem and Hindu and the practitioners of Native American traditional spirituality – all are yours. All are yours.
Lord, if the earth is yours, and it is, make me a good steward of the earth. And if all people belong to you, grant me to see every boy and girl and man and woman as a person created by you and beloved by you. Help me to see the beauty and value in each.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you see the creator in the creation.
Ask God to help you to see the image of the creator in each person you meet.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
who do not lift up their souls to what is false,
and do not swear deceitfully.
5 They will receive blessing from the Lord,
and vindication from the God of their salvation.
6 Such is the company of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.a Selah
7 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
8 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
he is the King of glory. Selah
[1]
a Gk Syr: Heb your face, O Jacob
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
the world, and those who live in it;
2 for he has founded it on the seas,
and established it on the rivers.
Lord,
The earth is yours by the rights of creation. The earth:
The mountains, rivers, plains and seas;
The oil and natural gas, the top soil and water rights;
Cattle, chickens, tuna, and the legs of crab and frog;
And all of the acreage, it all belongs to you according to the rights of creation. You were before the earth and you will be after the earth and when all else is done, it’s yours.
The people of the world are yours:
Men of every hue and women of every language and children of every size, all are yours.
The oil sheiks of the middle east and the moguls of Wall Street;
Generals and privates and civilians who pray not to become collateral damage;
Plumbers and carpenters, lawyers and doctors, preachers and beggars;
We all belong to you.
Now this is the hard part. Some of us do not know to whom we belong. We see ourselves as the masters of our own universe. And some of us do not know that the others belong to you. We simply cannot bring ourselves to believe that the damaged children of Iraq and the people of Iran and Sudan, and Moslem and Hindu and the practitioners of Native American traditional spirituality – all are yours. All are yours.
Lord, if the earth is yours, and it is, make me a good steward of the earth. And if all people belong to you, grant me to see every boy and girl and man and woman as a person created by you and beloved by you. Help me to see the beauty and value in each.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you see the creator in the creation.
Ask God to help you to see the image of the creator in each person you meet.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
who do not lift up their souls to what is false,
and do not swear deceitfully.
5 They will receive blessing from the Lord,
and vindication from the God of their salvation.
6 Such is the company of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.a Selah
7 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
8 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
he is the King of glory. Selah
[1]
a Gk Syr: Heb your face, O Jacob
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
psalm 23
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,d
I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff—
they comfort me.
Lord,
Oh how I admire the courage of the poet! “I will fear no evil.” What faith he has, “for you are with me.” What a powerful peace, “they comfort me.” This courage, faith and peace I would have as my own.
You and I both know that I do not always walk in the pathways of righteousness. You know my sin. But if this poet was David, we know his sin too. So I ask that you will be with me in days dark and bright. Grant me the courage that comes with a firm faith in you and grant me the peace of your comforting presence.
In this quiet moment, I know that you are here. In the spirit of the Quakers, let me hear the voice that speaks from within. Let me hear the voice that speaks through scripture. Let me hear your voice and know that you are with me.
Lord, some among us are experiencing some very dark days. The economic plight of our nation, indeed our world, has put families and homes and the necessities of life at risk for many many people. Even more than I, they need faith, courage, and comfort. Bless each one with the peace that only your presence can offer.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to grant you assurance of God’s presence.
Sit quietly for a time in an awareness that the Spirit lives within you and around you and with the community of God’s people.
Name 5 things for with you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
d Or the valley of the shadow of death
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,d
I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff—
they comfort me.
Lord,
Oh how I admire the courage of the poet! “I will fear no evil.” What faith he has, “for you are with me.” What a powerful peace, “they comfort me.” This courage, faith and peace I would have as my own.
You and I both know that I do not always walk in the pathways of righteousness. You know my sin. But if this poet was David, we know his sin too. So I ask that you will be with me in days dark and bright. Grant me the courage that comes with a firm faith in you and grant me the peace of your comforting presence.
In this quiet moment, I know that you are here. In the spirit of the Quakers, let me hear the voice that speaks from within. Let me hear the voice that speaks through scripture. Let me hear your voice and know that you are with me.
Lord, some among us are experiencing some very dark days. The economic plight of our nation, indeed our world, has put families and homes and the necessities of life at risk for many many people. Even more than I, they need faith, courage, and comfort. Bless each one with the peace that only your presence can offer.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to grant you assurance of God’s presence.
Sit quietly for a time in an awareness that the Spirit lives within you and around you and with the community of God’s people.
Name 5 things for with you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
d Or the valley of the shadow of death
Monday, October 13, 2008
Psalm 23
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;a
3 he restores my soul.b
He leads me in right pathsc
for his name’s sake.
Lord,
Restore my soul. I am not confessing to any unusual distress today, though the economy has me a bit worried and I’m always concerned for my family and friends, but I am confessing the need for daily restoration. As my body needs daily bread, so my soul requires daily attention, the ongoing nurture of your Spirit.
And I pray for those who need more than daily bread, for those whose souls are being damaged by the challenges and tragedies of life – the poor and bankrupt, the ill, dying and grieving, all who care for the vulnerable and wounded, all who must choose between the bad and the worst, for all who require significant soul-restoration.
Lord, it appears that there are times when you restore our souls without fixing the circumstances that wound and even destroy. So, I pray, that in the midst of danger and death, you will restore souls. When illness will not be cured and when death will not be denied and when bankruptcy is inevitable, please grant to your servants soul-wholeness in the midst of the worst that this world has to offer.
Lead us in the path of righteousness. Teach us to do the right thing in the right way at the right time. Above all, keep us in right relationship with You and with our neighbors.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray that God will keep your soul whole.
Pray that the wounds on your soul will be healed and that all around you will be made whole.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Heb waters of rest
b Or life
c Or paths of righteousness
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;a
3 he restores my soul.b
He leads me in right pathsc
for his name’s sake.
Lord,
Restore my soul. I am not confessing to any unusual distress today, though the economy has me a bit worried and I’m always concerned for my family and friends, but I am confessing the need for daily restoration. As my body needs daily bread, so my soul requires daily attention, the ongoing nurture of your Spirit.
And I pray for those who need more than daily bread, for those whose souls are being damaged by the challenges and tragedies of life – the poor and bankrupt, the ill, dying and grieving, all who care for the vulnerable and wounded, all who must choose between the bad and the worst, for all who require significant soul-restoration.
Lord, it appears that there are times when you restore our souls without fixing the circumstances that wound and even destroy. So, I pray, that in the midst of danger and death, you will restore souls. When illness will not be cured and when death will not be denied and when bankruptcy is inevitable, please grant to your servants soul-wholeness in the midst of the worst that this world has to offer.
Lead us in the path of righteousness. Teach us to do the right thing in the right way at the right time. Above all, keep us in right relationship with You and with our neighbors.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray that God will keep your soul whole.
Pray that the wounds on your soul will be healed and that all around you will be made whole.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Heb waters of rest
b Or life
c Or paths of righteousness
Sunday, October 12, 2008
psalm 23
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
Lord,
We could use a really good shepherd now. The market is down about a third and our annuities are down nearly that much which means for those who are about to retire, their annual income from their annuity will be reduced by a third and that, dear Lord, is a powerful kick in the sensitive places of life. Your servants are being hurt in powerful ways and need your shepherding. Quiet waters and green grass are wonderful things but some green money would be helpful too.
Lord, I look at my colleagues and the faithful servants they have given all of their adult lives to you and then I look at the corporate executives who, with the blessing of our political leaders, have driven our economy into near-oblivion and I see the “golden parachutes” they are given to provide soft landings following the chain collision crashes they have created and, to be honest, I am really angry. Where is the justice? Oh that they would live on the reduced incomes of some of your faithful servants! (I know. It’s a little vindictive but I prefer to call it justice.)
Lord, for the sake of your faithful servants, for the sake of ministers and missionaries who are about to retire, for the sake of all sisters and brothers of faith who are being seriously damaged by our current economic crisis, be a good shepherd. Grant us your relief and return us to ample prosperity. And as we wait for better days, walk with us through the valley of financial fear and failure and grant us your grace in every needed way.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray for all who are being hurt by the current economic crisis, including yourself, your family, and those you love.
Give God thanks for the good shepherd we know in Jesus.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
Lord,
We could use a really good shepherd now. The market is down about a third and our annuities are down nearly that much which means for those who are about to retire, their annual income from their annuity will be reduced by a third and that, dear Lord, is a powerful kick in the sensitive places of life. Your servants are being hurt in powerful ways and need your shepherding. Quiet waters and green grass are wonderful things but some green money would be helpful too.
Lord, I look at my colleagues and the faithful servants they have given all of their adult lives to you and then I look at the corporate executives who, with the blessing of our political leaders, have driven our economy into near-oblivion and I see the “golden parachutes” they are given to provide soft landings following the chain collision crashes they have created and, to be honest, I am really angry. Where is the justice? Oh that they would live on the reduced incomes of some of your faithful servants! (I know. It’s a little vindictive but I prefer to call it justice.)
Lord, for the sake of your faithful servants, for the sake of ministers and missionaries who are about to retire, for the sake of all sisters and brothers of faith who are being seriously damaged by our current economic crisis, be a good shepherd. Grant us your relief and return us to ample prosperity. And as we wait for better days, walk with us through the valley of financial fear and failure and grant us your grace in every needed way.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Pray for all who are being hurt by the current economic crisis, including yourself, your family, and those you love.
Give God thanks for the good shepherd we know in Jesus.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Psalm 22
Psalm 22 (NRSV)
12 Many bulls encircle me,
strong bulls of Bashan surround me;
13 they open wide their mouths at me,
like a ravening and roaring lion.
14 I am poured out like water,
and all my bones are out of joint;
my heart is like wax;
it is melted within my breast;
15 my moutha is dried up like a potsherd,
and my tongue sticks to my jaws;
you lay me in the dust of death.
16 For dogs are all around me;
a company of evildoers encircles me.
My hands and feet have shriveled;b
17 I can count all my bones.
They stare and gloat over me;
18 they divide my clothes among themselves,
and for my clothing they cast lots.
19 But you, O Lord, do not be far away!
O my help, come quickly to my aid!
20 Deliver my soul from the sword,
my lifec from the power of the dog!
21 Save me from the mouth of the lion!
From the horns of the wild oxen you have rescuedd me.
22 I will tell of your name to my brothers and sisters;e
in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:
23 You who fear the Lord, praise him!
All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him;
stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!
24 For he did not despise or abhor
the affliction of the afflicted;
he did not hide his face from me,f
but heard when Ig cried to him.
25 From you comes my praise in the great congregation;
my vows I will pay before those who fear him.
26 The poorh shall eat and be satisfied;
those who seek him shall praise the Lord.
May your hearts live forever!
27 All the ends of the earth shall remember
and turn to the Lord;
and all the families of the nations
shall worship before him.i
28 For dominion belongs to the Lord,
and he rules over the nations.
29 To him,j indeed, shall all who sleep ink the earth bow down;
before him shall bow all who go down to the dust,
and I shall live for him.l
30 Posterity will serve him;
future generations will be told about the Lord,
31 andm proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn,
saying that he has done it.
[1]
Lord,
I marvel at the poet’s faith and ask that his faith will inform my faith. He is clearly in serious trouble. And he is free to proclaim his problems to you with no pretension. As he engages you in prayer, he takes his problem to you in a state of absolute desperation. That desperation forces him to confess his absolute dependency on you. And in that state of physical, emotional and spiritual dependency, he becomes aware of your listening presence. In your presence he remembers desperate prayers long ago answered. Those memories, both personal and historical, remind him of your long persisting faithfulness. And remembering past faithfulness, he is made bold to proclaim that you will be faithful for all generations to come. It’s nearly paradoxical but it seems that his desperation becomes the tap root for hope.
In the words of Paul, it becomes grace delivered through faith. But this time, faith has been stirred by fear.
Lord, I confess that I would be more than happy to avoid those circumstance that generate fear and desperation – though with the present economy we may all be driven to that place. But I do confess my dependence on you and I seek your grace.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Speak your fears to God and ask for help.
As you speak, be aware of God’s listening presence and allow yourself to hope.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
a Cn: Heb strength
b Meaning of Heb uncertain
c Heb my only one
d Heb answered
e Or kindred
f Heb him
g Heb he
h Or afflicted
i Gk Syr Jerome: Heb you
j Cn: Heb They have eaten and
k Cn: Heb all the fat ones
l Compare Gk Syr Vg: Heb and he who cannot keep himself alive
m Compare Gk: Heb it will be told about the Lord to the generation, 31they will come and
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
12 Many bulls encircle me,
strong bulls of Bashan surround me;
13 they open wide their mouths at me,
like a ravening and roaring lion.
14 I am poured out like water,
and all my bones are out of joint;
my heart is like wax;
it is melted within my breast;
15 my moutha is dried up like a potsherd,
and my tongue sticks to my jaws;
you lay me in the dust of death.
16 For dogs are all around me;
a company of evildoers encircles me.
My hands and feet have shriveled;b
17 I can count all my bones.
They stare and gloat over me;
18 they divide my clothes among themselves,
and for my clothing they cast lots.
19 But you, O Lord, do not be far away!
O my help, come quickly to my aid!
20 Deliver my soul from the sword,
my lifec from the power of the dog!
21 Save me from the mouth of the lion!
From the horns of the wild oxen you have rescuedd me.
22 I will tell of your name to my brothers and sisters;e
in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:
23 You who fear the Lord, praise him!
All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him;
stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!
24 For he did not despise or abhor
the affliction of the afflicted;
he did not hide his face from me,f
but heard when Ig cried to him.
25 From you comes my praise in the great congregation;
my vows I will pay before those who fear him.
26 The poorh shall eat and be satisfied;
those who seek him shall praise the Lord.
May your hearts live forever!
27 All the ends of the earth shall remember
and turn to the Lord;
and all the families of the nations
shall worship before him.i
28 For dominion belongs to the Lord,
and he rules over the nations.
29 To him,j indeed, shall all who sleep ink the earth bow down;
before him shall bow all who go down to the dust,
and I shall live for him.l
30 Posterity will serve him;
future generations will be told about the Lord,
31 andm proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn,
saying that he has done it.
[1]
Lord,
I marvel at the poet’s faith and ask that his faith will inform my faith. He is clearly in serious trouble. And he is free to proclaim his problems to you with no pretension. As he engages you in prayer, he takes his problem to you in a state of absolute desperation. That desperation forces him to confess his absolute dependency on you. And in that state of physical, emotional and spiritual dependency, he becomes aware of your listening presence. In your presence he remembers desperate prayers long ago answered. Those memories, both personal and historical, remind him of your long persisting faithfulness. And remembering past faithfulness, he is made bold to proclaim that you will be faithful for all generations to come. It’s nearly paradoxical but it seems that his desperation becomes the tap root for hope.
In the words of Paul, it becomes grace delivered through faith. But this time, faith has been stirred by fear.
Lord, I confess that I would be more than happy to avoid those circumstance that generate fear and desperation – though with the present economy we may all be driven to that place. But I do confess my dependence on you and I seek your grace.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Speak your fears to God and ask for help.
As you speak, be aware of God’s listening presence and allow yourself to hope.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
a Cn: Heb strength
b Meaning of Heb uncertain
c Heb my only one
d Heb answered
e Or kindred
f Heb him
g Heb he
h Or afflicted
i Gk Syr Jerome: Heb you
j Cn: Heb They have eaten and
k Cn: Heb all the fat ones
l Compare Gk Syr Vg: Heb and he who cannot keep himself alive
m Compare Gk: Heb it will be told about the Lord to the generation, 31they will come and
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Psalm 22
Psalm 22 (NRSV)
6 But I am a worm, and not human;
scorned by others, and despised by the people.
7 All who see me mock at me;
they make mouths at me, they shake their heads;
8 “Commit your cause to the Lord; let him deliver—
let him rescue the one in whom he delights!”
9 Yet it was you who took me from the womb;
you kept me safe on my mother’s breast.
10 On you I was cast from my birth,
and since my mother bore me you have been my God.
11 Do not be far from me,
for trouble is near
and there is no one to help.
Lord,
The poet is having a bad day, a really bad day! His soul is arena for a grand wrestling match. On the one hand he is struggling with the horrible events of the season and, on the other hand, he is remembering the eternal reality of your care. On the one hand, “I am a worm, and not human.” And on the other hand, “Yet it was you who took me from the womb.” Who am I, worm or child of God?
It was the poet’s soul-struggle and some days it is my struggle. Lord, who am I and who are you? Am I a worm to be ignored or a child whom you delivered into this life? Are you a God who ignores the plight of your people or are you the One who responds with grace and love?
I pray with the poet, “Since my mother bore me you have been my God.” And I continue, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Give God thanks for being your God and for giving you life.
Confess to God whatever conflict may be present within your soul today.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say, “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
6 But I am a worm, and not human;
scorned by others, and despised by the people.
7 All who see me mock at me;
they make mouths at me, they shake their heads;
8 “Commit your cause to the Lord; let him deliver—
let him rescue the one in whom he delights!”
9 Yet it was you who took me from the womb;
you kept me safe on my mother’s breast.
10 On you I was cast from my birth,
and since my mother bore me you have been my God.
11 Do not be far from me,
for trouble is near
and there is no one to help.
Lord,
The poet is having a bad day, a really bad day! His soul is arena for a grand wrestling match. On the one hand he is struggling with the horrible events of the season and, on the other hand, he is remembering the eternal reality of your care. On the one hand, “I am a worm, and not human.” And on the other hand, “Yet it was you who took me from the womb.” Who am I, worm or child of God?
It was the poet’s soul-struggle and some days it is my struggle. Lord, who am I and who are you? Am I a worm to be ignored or a child whom you delivered into this life? Are you a God who ignores the plight of your people or are you the One who responds with grace and love?
I pray with the poet, “Since my mother bore me you have been my God.” And I continue, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Give God thanks for being your God and for giving you life.
Confess to God whatever conflict may be present within your soul today.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say, “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Psalm 22
Psalm 22 (NRSV)
1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?
2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer;
and by night, but find no rest.
3 Yet you are holy,
enthroned on the praises of Israel.
4 In you our ancestors trusted;
they trusted, and you delivered them.
5 To you they cried, and were saved;
in you they trusted, and were not put to shame.
Lord,
Women and men around the world are crying, “Lord, where are you?” Hurricanes, tornadoes, flood and drought have taken lives and destroyed homes and livelihoods and the cry is, “Where are you?” Tyrants, both political and economic, have reduced men and women to the bare necessities and less and they cry, “Where are you?” The ravages of disease and crashing of relationships cause us to wonder, “Where are you?” And across America today, as the gods of Greed are bringing forth their flowers of economic destruction, we wonder, “Where are you?”
And, with the poet we pray, “Yet you are holy.” “In you our ancestors trusted…and you delivered them.” Look with mercy on all of your suffering people and grant your salvation.
“Yet”, the poet prayed “Yet”. He remembered the experience of his ancestors and he chose to trust in you, even when the immediate evidence called for panic and distrust. He remembered that there is more to our reality than our immediate experiences. That which dominates our senses does not include all that is. He remembered that which came long before the experience of the moment and he chose to trust himself into your care.
Lord, make it so with us, with me, today and every day.
Help me to trust even when I cannot find you. Even when I cry, “My God…why have you forsaken me?” remind me to pray, “Yet….” Help me to choose to believe and trust.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to grant you the power of trust even when everything calls for fear and panic.
Affirm with the poet, “Yet you are holy”, and remember the faith of those who have gone before.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?
2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer;
and by night, but find no rest.
3 Yet you are holy,
enthroned on the praises of Israel.
4 In you our ancestors trusted;
they trusted, and you delivered them.
5 To you they cried, and were saved;
in you they trusted, and were not put to shame.
Lord,
Women and men around the world are crying, “Lord, where are you?” Hurricanes, tornadoes, flood and drought have taken lives and destroyed homes and livelihoods and the cry is, “Where are you?” Tyrants, both political and economic, have reduced men and women to the bare necessities and less and they cry, “Where are you?” The ravages of disease and crashing of relationships cause us to wonder, “Where are you?” And across America today, as the gods of Greed are bringing forth their flowers of economic destruction, we wonder, “Where are you?”
And, with the poet we pray, “Yet you are holy.” “In you our ancestors trusted…and you delivered them.” Look with mercy on all of your suffering people and grant your salvation.
“Yet”, the poet prayed “Yet”. He remembered the experience of his ancestors and he chose to trust in you, even when the immediate evidence called for panic and distrust. He remembered that there is more to our reality than our immediate experiences. That which dominates our senses does not include all that is. He remembered that which came long before the experience of the moment and he chose to trust himself into your care.
Lord, make it so with us, with me, today and every day.
Help me to trust even when I cannot find you. Even when I cry, “My God…why have you forsaken me?” remind me to pray, “Yet….” Help me to choose to believe and trust.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to grant you the power of trust even when everything calls for fear and panic.
Affirm with the poet, “Yet you are holy”, and remember the faith of those who have gone before.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Psalm 21
Psalm 21 (NRSV)
8 Your hand will find out all your enemies;
your right hand will find out those who hate you.
9 You will make them like a fiery furnace
when you appear.
The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath,
and fire will consume them.
10 You will destroy their offspring from the earth,
and their children from among humankind.
11 If they plan evil against you,
if they devise mischief, they will not succeed.
12 For you will put them to flight;
you will aim at their faces with your bows.
13 Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength!
We will sing and praise your power.
[1]
Lord,
Some day in some way, you are going to make this world right. All that violates the two great commandments will be removed and all that is in harmony with those great commandments will be fulfilled and all of your people will live together in peace and love. This is the singular promise of your Kingdom and you invite us to live as though it were so now. You invite us to do those things that help to create peace and love.
But how far away we are now! The American economy seems on the verge of collapse and our leaders, for the moment, are stymied. Clearly greed has been the reigning god of the season and we will now all drink from the bitters waters of her well. Some have acquired wealth beyond all imagination and the rest of us will pay for their excess. I can feel the prayer of the next Psalm, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken us?”
If your kingdom is to prevail, if love and peace and justice are to reign, then some things will have to go and some gods will have to be defeated. Greed will have to be disciplined and reigned in and defeated. And those who have knelt at the altars of greed will have to change or be changed for the sake of the rest of your people.
8 Your hand will find out all your enemies;
your right hand will find out those who hate you.
9 You will make them like a fiery furnace
when you appear.
The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath,
and fire will consume them.
10 You will destroy their offspring from the earth,
and their children from among humankind.
11 If they plan evil against you,
if they devise mischief, they will not succeed.
12 For you will put them to flight;
you will aim at their faces with your bows.
13 Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength!
We will sing and praise your power.
[1]
Lord,
Some day in some way, you are going to make this world right. All that violates the two great commandments will be removed and all that is in harmony with those great commandments will be fulfilled and all of your people will live together in peace and love. This is the singular promise of your Kingdom and you invite us to live as though it were so now. You invite us to do those things that help to create peace and love.
But how far away we are now! The American economy seems on the verge of collapse and our leaders, for the moment, are stymied. Clearly greed has been the reigning god of the season and we will now all drink from the bitters waters of her well. Some have acquired wealth beyond all imagination and the rest of us will pay for their excess. I can feel the prayer of the next Psalm, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken us?”
If your kingdom is to prevail, if love and peace and justice are to reign, then some things will have to go and some gods will have to be defeated. Greed will have to be disciplined and reigned in and defeated. And those who have knelt at the altars of greed will have to change or be changed for the sake of the rest of your people.
Dear Lord, let it be so and let it begin in me.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to shape your attitude and behavior according to the values of God’s Kingdom.
Seductive as the god of greed is, ask God to keep you from Greed’s worship.
Pray for our nation’s leaders in this time of crisis.
Name 5 thing for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Psalm 21
Psalm 21 (NRSV)
1 In your strength the king rejoices, O Lord,
and in your help how greatly he exults!
2 You have given him his heart’s desire,
and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah
3 For you meet him with rich blessings;
you set a crown of fine gold on his head.
4 He asked you for life; you gave it to him—
length of days forever and ever.
5 His glory is great through your help;
splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
6 You bestow on him blessings forever;
you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
7 For the king trusts in the Lord,
and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved.
[1]
Lord,
Help me.
This psalm (21) rejoices in the victories that you give. “You (Lord) have given him (the king, the poet) his heart’s desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips.”
The next psalm (22) begins, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?”
And Psalm 23 begins, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”
Each psalm is ripe with the emotions of the moment. In moments of success, the poet celebrates your faithfulness. In seasons of danger, the poet wonders aloud, where in the world are you? And the next psalm declares, “The Lord is my shepherd.
So, as I pray through the psalms, the invitation seems to be clear. You invite me to offer to you the current truth of my heart and soul. I am invited to say in times of success, “Thank you.” In times of uncertainty and danger, I may say to you “Help.” In times of confusion, I may say, “I really don’t understand” and I may say, “I doubt it.” When the soul is dry, I may say, “Why have you forsaken me?” When illness and death intrude, I am invited to ask for healing and help. And, I may always say, “Praise belongs to you. The heavens and earth belong to you. And though I doubt, still I believe.”
I believe that above all, you invite a living and honest conversation, a relationship grounded in the reality of life. If I am wrong, forgive and correct me.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Speak to God the truth of your life now and ask God to give you the grace that you need in this season of life.
Ask God to strip all pretention from your prayers and to help you to see yourself as God sees you.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
1 In your strength the king rejoices, O Lord,
and in your help how greatly he exults!
2 You have given him his heart’s desire,
and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah
3 For you meet him with rich blessings;
you set a crown of fine gold on his head.
4 He asked you for life; you gave it to him—
length of days forever and ever.
5 His glory is great through your help;
splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
6 You bestow on him blessings forever;
you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
7 For the king trusts in the Lord,
and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved.
[1]
Lord,
Help me.
This psalm (21) rejoices in the victories that you give. “You (Lord) have given him (the king, the poet) his heart’s desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips.”
The next psalm (22) begins, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?”
And Psalm 23 begins, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”
Each psalm is ripe with the emotions of the moment. In moments of success, the poet celebrates your faithfulness. In seasons of danger, the poet wonders aloud, where in the world are you? And the next psalm declares, “The Lord is my shepherd.
So, as I pray through the psalms, the invitation seems to be clear. You invite me to offer to you the current truth of my heart and soul. I am invited to say in times of success, “Thank you.” In times of uncertainty and danger, I may say to you “Help.” In times of confusion, I may say, “I really don’t understand” and I may say, “I doubt it.” When the soul is dry, I may say, “Why have you forsaken me?” When illness and death intrude, I am invited to ask for healing and help. And, I may always say, “Praise belongs to you. The heavens and earth belong to you. And though I doubt, still I believe.”
I believe that above all, you invite a living and honest conversation, a relationship grounded in the reality of life. If I am wrong, forgive and correct me.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Speak to God the truth of your life now and ask God to give you the grace that you need in this season of life.
Ask God to strip all pretention from your prayers and to help you to see yourself as God sees you.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
psalm 20
Psalm 20 (NRSV)
6 Now I know that the Lord will help his anointed;
he will answer him from his holy heaven
with mighty victories by his right hand.
7 Some take pride in chariots, and some in horses,
but our pride is in the name of the Lord our God.
8 They will collapse and fall,
but we shall rise and stand upright.
9 Give victory to the king, O Lord;
answer us when we call.a
[1]
Lord,
You can bet your life (as though you, the Lord God could “bet your life”) that I want to believe the prayer of the poet, “I know that the Lord will help his anointed; he will answer him from his holy heaven with mighty victories by his right hand.”
Lord, I’m in a new place in life trying to do a new thing in a new way and I need all the help that I can get. You know the reasons for my doubts. I have experienced unanswered prayer. My nephews are dead and family members have experienced what must be glimpses of hell. While you did not protect us from evil, you walked through the torments of evil with us and saw us through.
Still I believe that you help your people, those who call on you. As I engage my new assignment, I ask for your help. I ask for your wisdom and energy so that the work of your kingdom might be advanced. I believe that you have a “victory” that will contribute to the mission of your kingdom. I believe that you will answer my prayer.
Jesus said, “ask and you will receive.” I believe. Let it be so.
Lord, I pray for my country. We have “horses and chariots” like no other in the world and still the headlines scream that we are on the verge of disaster, crumbling from the inner rot of greed and corruption. Have mercy O Lord, have mercy.
The poet says that “they will collapse and fall.” I pray that the “they” is not “we”.
Lord, answer our prayers.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Place your personal mission before God and ask for the victory that God would give.
Pray for out nation.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
a Gk: Heb give victory, O Lord; let the King answer us when we call
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
6 Now I know that the Lord will help his anointed;
he will answer him from his holy heaven
with mighty victories by his right hand.
7 Some take pride in chariots, and some in horses,
but our pride is in the name of the Lord our God.
8 They will collapse and fall,
but we shall rise and stand upright.
9 Give victory to the king, O Lord;
answer us when we call.a
[1]
Lord,
You can bet your life (as though you, the Lord God could “bet your life”) that I want to believe the prayer of the poet, “I know that the Lord will help his anointed; he will answer him from his holy heaven with mighty victories by his right hand.”
Lord, I’m in a new place in life trying to do a new thing in a new way and I need all the help that I can get. You know the reasons for my doubts. I have experienced unanswered prayer. My nephews are dead and family members have experienced what must be glimpses of hell. While you did not protect us from evil, you walked through the torments of evil with us and saw us through.
Still I believe that you help your people, those who call on you. As I engage my new assignment, I ask for your help. I ask for your wisdom and energy so that the work of your kingdom might be advanced. I believe that you have a “victory” that will contribute to the mission of your kingdom. I believe that you will answer my prayer.
Jesus said, “ask and you will receive.” I believe. Let it be so.
Lord, I pray for my country. We have “horses and chariots” like no other in the world and still the headlines scream that we are on the verge of disaster, crumbling from the inner rot of greed and corruption. Have mercy O Lord, have mercy.
The poet says that “they will collapse and fall.” I pray that the “they” is not “we”.
Lord, answer our prayers.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Place your personal mission before God and ask for the victory that God would give.
Pray for out nation.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
a Gk: Heb give victory, O Lord; let the King answer us when we call
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Monday, September 22, 2008
Psalm 20
Psalm 20 (NRSV)
1 The Lord answer you in the day of trouble!
The name of the God of Jacob protect you!
2 May he send you help from the sanctuary,
and give you support from Zion.
3 May he remember all your offerings,
and regard with favor your burnt sacrifices. Selah
4 May he grant you your heart’s desire,
and fulfill all your plans.
5 May we shout for joy over your victory,
and in the name of our God set up our banners.
May the Lord fulfill all your petitions.
Lord,
I’m reminded of an Irish blessing. “May the road rise up to meet you and the wind be always at your back.” I take this Psalm as a “Psalmic Blessing.”
Jesus once said, “Ask and you will receive. Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened to you.”
And where in the Christian writings does it say, “You have not because you ask not”? We are clearly invited to place the dearest desires of the heart before God.
Lord, I ask that you lead me to give careful attention to my petitions and requests. I ask that you will inform the desires of my heart.
As the poet sets his requests in the context of sacrifice and offering, set my requests in the context of worship and faithful discipleship.
And, Lord, I ask that you will fulfill my petitions.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to shape the fundamental desires of your heart and to fulfill them.
Name 5 things that you want, pray that your desires are consistent with the character of Christ and ask God to open the doors necessary to their accomplishment.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name.
Amen.
[1]
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
1 The Lord answer you in the day of trouble!
The name of the God of Jacob protect you!
2 May he send you help from the sanctuary,
and give you support from Zion.
3 May he remember all your offerings,
and regard with favor your burnt sacrifices. Selah
4 May he grant you your heart’s desire,
and fulfill all your plans.
5 May we shout for joy over your victory,
and in the name of our God set up our banners.
May the Lord fulfill all your petitions.
Lord,
I’m reminded of an Irish blessing. “May the road rise up to meet you and the wind be always at your back.” I take this Psalm as a “Psalmic Blessing.”
Jesus once said, “Ask and you will receive. Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened to you.”
And where in the Christian writings does it say, “You have not because you ask not”? We are clearly invited to place the dearest desires of the heart before God.
Lord, I ask that you lead me to give careful attention to my petitions and requests. I ask that you will inform the desires of my heart.
As the poet sets his requests in the context of sacrifice and offering, set my requests in the context of worship and faithful discipleship.
And, Lord, I ask that you will fulfill my petitions.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to shape the fundamental desires of your heart and to fulfill them.
Name 5 things that you want, pray that your desires are consistent with the character of Christ and ask God to open the doors necessary to their accomplishment.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name.
Amen.
[1]
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Psalm 19
Psalm 19 (NRSV)
14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
[1]
Lord,
Countless sermons have begun with this verse and rightly so. But this morning I pray that my life will begin with these words, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
Words, the flowers of the heart; roses and dandelions, orchids and thistles, words bless and curse, heal and wound, help and hurt – let the words of my mouth be acceptable today.
Meditation, that to which we give our attention, those to whom we listen, the focus of our thoughts and fantasies, the pondering and wondering that we do – let my meditations be acceptable to you today.
Lord, you are the One to whom I pledge my ultimate loyalty, the one to whom I am, both by choice and necessity finally accountable.
My rock, you are the stability in my life, the One who cannot be broken, the One upon whom I finally rely.
My redeemer, You, God of heaven and earth, You are the father of Jesus, the one in whom salvation is found. In Jesus, we find the final testimony that your love is beyond measure. You have redeemed us for yourself.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to so breathe God’s Spirit into you that your words and meditations will be pleasing to God.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
[1]
Lord,
Countless sermons have begun with this verse and rightly so. But this morning I pray that my life will begin with these words, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
Words, the flowers of the heart; roses and dandelions, orchids and thistles, words bless and curse, heal and wound, help and hurt – let the words of my mouth be acceptable today.
Meditation, that to which we give our attention, those to whom we listen, the focus of our thoughts and fantasies, the pondering and wondering that we do – let my meditations be acceptable to you today.
Lord, you are the One to whom I pledge my ultimate loyalty, the one to whom I am, both by choice and necessity finally accountable.
My rock, you are the stability in my life, the One who cannot be broken, the One upon whom I finally rely.
My redeemer, You, God of heaven and earth, You are the father of Jesus, the one in whom salvation is found. In Jesus, we find the final testimony that your love is beyond measure. You have redeemed us for yourself.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to so breathe God’s Spirit into you that your words and meditations will be pleasing to God.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
psalm 19
Psalm 19 (NRSV)
7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
12 But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
13 Keep back your servant also from the insolent;d
do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
and innocent of great transgression.
Lord,
Your ordinances are “more desired than gold”, “sweeter than honey.” Jesus once talked about a treasure buried in a field that cost the buyer everything and was worth it. Your law, your words, your instruction, your way, your salvation is worth it – more desired than gold and sweeter than honey.
You make it clear that those who live according to your ordinances discover great rewards and those who know your words avoid life-destroying mistakes.
Allow me an observation or two. Lord, correct me if I am wrong.
Too many of us claim to love you and your ordinances and words and claim to hold the Holy Scriptures sacred and all the while do not know you nor your words nor your Son.
And too many of us know scripture but never really know the character of Jesus and believe that the words about you and the words about Jesus are the same as knowing your character and living with your Spirit. That is the way it seems to me. Lord, let that not be the way it is with me.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to know not only the ordinances of God but also the Spirit of God.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
[1]
d Or from proud thoughts
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
12 But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
13 Keep back your servant also from the insolent;d
do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
and innocent of great transgression.
Lord,
Your ordinances are “more desired than gold”, “sweeter than honey.” Jesus once talked about a treasure buried in a field that cost the buyer everything and was worth it. Your law, your words, your instruction, your way, your salvation is worth it – more desired than gold and sweeter than honey.
You make it clear that those who live according to your ordinances discover great rewards and those who know your words avoid life-destroying mistakes.
Allow me an observation or two. Lord, correct me if I am wrong.
Too many of us claim to love you and your ordinances and words and claim to hold the Holy Scriptures sacred and all the while do not know you nor your words nor your Son.
And too many of us know scripture but never really know the character of Jesus and believe that the words about you and the words about Jesus are the same as knowing your character and living with your Spirit. That is the way it seems to me. Lord, let that not be the way it is with me.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to know not only the ordinances of God but also the Spirit of God.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
[1]
d Or from proud thoughts
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Psalm 19
Psalm 19 (NRSV)
7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.
Lord,
That which comes from you revives, makes wise, gives joy, enlightens, endures and is entirely right.
Does it follow that what revives, is wise, grants joy and enlightens always comes form you? Careful Joe, what looks like wisdom and joy may merely be attractive counterfeits. Of course, we attribute some things to the Lord that the Lord would clearly reject. Be careful as to what is attributed to the Lord.
Even so, the poet is clear that all that comes from You, Lord, is given with the clear intention of blessing and enriching our lives. You are for us and not against us. You created us for joyful and abundant living and you give us the resources necessary, the resources of your “law”.
As for me, I know that a law or rule or insight or instruction comes from you when it is consistent with Jesus, his life, instruction, and behavior. He is the fulfillment of the law, the law’s highest expression, the “word made flesh.”
For your gifts, for the way of life revealed in your law and fulfilled in Christ, O God, thank you.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to attune your life with the “law of God” as fully revealed in Jesus.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thanks you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.
Lord,
That which comes from you revives, makes wise, gives joy, enlightens, endures and is entirely right.
Does it follow that what revives, is wise, grants joy and enlightens always comes form you? Careful Joe, what looks like wisdom and joy may merely be attractive counterfeits. Of course, we attribute some things to the Lord that the Lord would clearly reject. Be careful as to what is attributed to the Lord.
Even so, the poet is clear that all that comes from You, Lord, is given with the clear intention of blessing and enriching our lives. You are for us and not against us. You created us for joyful and abundant living and you give us the resources necessary, the resources of your “law”.
As for me, I know that a law or rule or insight or instruction comes from you when it is consistent with Jesus, his life, instruction, and behavior. He is the fulfillment of the law, the law’s highest expression, the “word made flesh.”
For your gifts, for the way of life revealed in your law and fulfilled in Christ, O God, thank you.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to attune your life with the “law of God” as fully revealed in Jesus.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thanks you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Psalm 19
Psalm 19 (NRSV)
1 The heavens are telling the glory of God;
and the firmamenta proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours forth speech,
and night to night declares knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words;
their voice is not heard;
4 yet their voiceb goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In the heavensc he has set a tent for the sun,
5 which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy,
and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them;
and nothing is hid from its heat.
Lord,
How magnificent is this? I stand nearly speechless. The heavens tell, there is no speech, yet their voice is heard. My, oh my, I get it. The poet points towards that which is beyond speech and defies description. There is something holy in the sun and moon, in day and night, in the stuff of life and in life which inhabits stuff. Pure literal description is essential for some forms of communication. There can be no science without it. But the poet knows of things which lie beyond the capacity of pure literal description. He points toward that which words cannot describe and neither mind nor heart can define. The poet points us towards God, that for which the only sound is a gasp and the only word is “Ahhhhh.” After that, we use thoughts, words, concepts, poetry, and art to point towards the Ineffable, the Indescribable, and the Felt but always in part. The heavens and the earth tell the glory of God.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Sit quietly before God and live within the Mystery and confess that we can know only in part.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Or dome
b Gk Jerome Compare Syr: Heb line
c Heb In them
1 The heavens are telling the glory of God;
and the firmamenta proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours forth speech,
and night to night declares knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words;
their voice is not heard;
4 yet their voiceb goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In the heavensc he has set a tent for the sun,
5 which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy,
and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them;
and nothing is hid from its heat.
Lord,
How magnificent is this? I stand nearly speechless. The heavens tell, there is no speech, yet their voice is heard. My, oh my, I get it. The poet points towards that which is beyond speech and defies description. There is something holy in the sun and moon, in day and night, in the stuff of life and in life which inhabits stuff. Pure literal description is essential for some forms of communication. There can be no science without it. But the poet knows of things which lie beyond the capacity of pure literal description. He points toward that which words cannot describe and neither mind nor heart can define. The poet points us towards God, that for which the only sound is a gasp and the only word is “Ahhhhh.” After that, we use thoughts, words, concepts, poetry, and art to point towards the Ineffable, the Indescribable, and the Felt but always in part. The heavens and the earth tell the glory of God.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Sit quietly before God and live within the Mystery and confess that we can know only in part.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
a Or dome
b Gk Jerome Compare Syr: Heb line
c Heb In them
Friday, September 12, 2008
Psalm 18
Psalm 18 (NRSV)
37 I pursued my enemies and overtook them;
and did not turn back until they were consumed.
38 I struck them down, so that they were not able to rise;
they fell under my feet.
39 For you girded me with strength for the battle;
you made my assailants sink under me.
40 You made my enemies turn their backs to me,
and those who hated me I destroyed.
41 They cried for help, but there was no one to save them;
they cried to the Lord, but he did not answer them.
42 I beat them fine, like dust before the wind;
I cast them out like the mire of the streets.
43 You delivered me from strife with the peoples;c
you made me head of the nations;
people whom I had not known served me.
44 As soon as they heard of me they obeyed me;
foreigners came cringing to me.
45 Foreigners lost heart,
and came trembling out of their strongholds.
46 The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock,
and exalted be the God of my salvation,
47 the God who gave me vengeance
and subdued peoples under me;
48 who delivered me from my enemies;
indeed, you exalted me above my adversaries;
you delivered me from the violent.
49 For this I will extol you, O Lord, among the nations,
and sing praises to your name.
50 Great triumphs he gives to his king,
and shows steadfast love to his anointed,
to David and his descendants forever.
[1]
Lord,
I celebrate the poet's victory. I celebrate his deliverance. I celebrate your faithfulness. And I fully understand his attitude “I beat them fine, like dust before the wind; I cast them out like the mire of the streets.” In his anger that turned to hatred with a surplus of adrenalin spilling through his veins and the yearning for revenge dominating his spirit, he ground them into dust and threw them out like garbage into the streets. Who cannot understand that?
I understand that you work with the people you have, as they are. I fully understand, by looking in the mirror, that human perfection is not guaranteed by the intent to be faithful. Sometimes we get better but for most of us perfection is reserved for heaven.
But you have given us Christ and I do not see the poet’s response as the response that Christ would make in similar circumstances. With Jesus' focus on reconciliation, forgiveness and love even for the enemy, I think that he and his disciples would behave differently in victory, regardless of the enemy’s behavior. And I pray that America, populated with Christians and shaped by Christian tradition would behave differently too.
The war with Germany was brutal in ways beyond description and, following victory, America responded with the Marshall Plan. We rebuilt Japan. We have normalized relations with Viet Nam.
Lord, as we move forward with the current wars, grant us the wisdom of your spirit. Grant us peace through reconciliation and justice.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to grant you a Christ-like spirit in the midst of conflict.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In the name of Christ,
Amen.
c Gk Tg: Heb people
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
37 I pursued my enemies and overtook them;
and did not turn back until they were consumed.
38 I struck them down, so that they were not able to rise;
they fell under my feet.
39 For you girded me with strength for the battle;
you made my assailants sink under me.
40 You made my enemies turn their backs to me,
and those who hated me I destroyed.
41 They cried for help, but there was no one to save them;
they cried to the Lord, but he did not answer them.
42 I beat them fine, like dust before the wind;
I cast them out like the mire of the streets.
43 You delivered me from strife with the peoples;c
you made me head of the nations;
people whom I had not known served me.
44 As soon as they heard of me they obeyed me;
foreigners came cringing to me.
45 Foreigners lost heart,
and came trembling out of their strongholds.
46 The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock,
and exalted be the God of my salvation,
47 the God who gave me vengeance
and subdued peoples under me;
48 who delivered me from my enemies;
indeed, you exalted me above my adversaries;
you delivered me from the violent.
49 For this I will extol you, O Lord, among the nations,
and sing praises to your name.
50 Great triumphs he gives to his king,
and shows steadfast love to his anointed,
to David and his descendants forever.
[1]
Lord,
I celebrate the poet's victory. I celebrate his deliverance. I celebrate your faithfulness. And I fully understand his attitude “I beat them fine, like dust before the wind; I cast them out like the mire of the streets.” In his anger that turned to hatred with a surplus of adrenalin spilling through his veins and the yearning for revenge dominating his spirit, he ground them into dust and threw them out like garbage into the streets. Who cannot understand that?
I understand that you work with the people you have, as they are. I fully understand, by looking in the mirror, that human perfection is not guaranteed by the intent to be faithful. Sometimes we get better but for most of us perfection is reserved for heaven.
But you have given us Christ and I do not see the poet’s response as the response that Christ would make in similar circumstances. With Jesus' focus on reconciliation, forgiveness and love even for the enemy, I think that he and his disciples would behave differently in victory, regardless of the enemy’s behavior. And I pray that America, populated with Christians and shaped by Christian tradition would behave differently too.
The war with Germany was brutal in ways beyond description and, following victory, America responded with the Marshall Plan. We rebuilt Japan. We have normalized relations with Viet Nam.
Lord, as we move forward with the current wars, grant us the wisdom of your spirit. Grant us peace through reconciliation and justice.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to grant you a Christ-like spirit in the midst of conflict.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In the name of Christ,
Amen.
c Gk Tg: Heb people
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Psalm 18
Psalm 18 (NRSV)
30 This God—his way is perfect;
the promise of the Lord proves true;
he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
31 For who is God except the Lord?
And who is a rock besides our God?—
32 the God who girded me with strength,
and made my way safe.
33 He made my feet like the feet of a deer,
and set me secure on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for war,
so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation,
and your right hand has supported me;
your helpb has made me great.
36 You gave me a wide place for my steps under me,
and my feet did not slip.
Lord,
Today is 9-11, the anniversary of the attack on The World Trade Center, The Pentagon, and the thwarted assault on the capital. The images of the planes striking and buildings collapsing and fires burning and ashes everywhere and living people running for their survival and others seeking and mourning the dead, those images will never be erased form memory. No doubt, some who suffered are men and women who are faithful to you Lord. For all who still suffer, please give your grace in super-abundant measure.
Tell me again how your way is perfect, how your promises prove true and how you are a shield for all who take refuge in you. Please do not regard my question as skepticism or cynicism or irreverence or even disbelief. I just want to know and I wish to be faithful. I want to believe if I can know what to believe. How do you provide?
I have experienced your provision in my own life. In times of serious uncertainty, that which was needed has been provided and I believe that you are the source of that provision. Once we were involved in a serious roll-over auto accident and we all escaped without injury, your protection.
And yet, a lot of people died on 9-11.
So Lord, this is what I believe today. I submit it for our corection and improvement. I believe that you provide what is needed to meet the tragedies and difficulties that come. You do not always prevent tragedy and you clearly do not protect us from all difficulty, but you never abandon us and you always show us the way through. You give us what we need to cope and thrive even when thriving means thriving on the other side of the great river.
30 This God—his way is perfect;
the promise of the Lord proves true;
he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
31 For who is God except the Lord?
And who is a rock besides our God?—
32 the God who girded me with strength,
and made my way safe.
33 He made my feet like the feet of a deer,
and set me secure on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for war,
so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation,
and your right hand has supported me;
your helpb has made me great.
36 You gave me a wide place for my steps under me,
and my feet did not slip.
Lord,
Today is 9-11, the anniversary of the attack on The World Trade Center, The Pentagon, and the thwarted assault on the capital. The images of the planes striking and buildings collapsing and fires burning and ashes everywhere and living people running for their survival and others seeking and mourning the dead, those images will never be erased form memory. No doubt, some who suffered are men and women who are faithful to you Lord. For all who still suffer, please give your grace in super-abundant measure.
Tell me again how your way is perfect, how your promises prove true and how you are a shield for all who take refuge in you. Please do not regard my question as skepticism or cynicism or irreverence or even disbelief. I just want to know and I wish to be faithful. I want to believe if I can know what to believe. How do you provide?
I have experienced your provision in my own life. In times of serious uncertainty, that which was needed has been provided and I believe that you are the source of that provision. Once we were involved in a serious roll-over auto accident and we all escaped without injury, your protection.
And yet, a lot of people died on 9-11.
So Lord, this is what I believe today. I submit it for our corection and improvement. I believe that you provide what is needed to meet the tragedies and difficulties that come. You do not always prevent tragedy and you clearly do not protect us from all difficulty, but you never abandon us and you always show us the way through. You give us what we need to cope and thrive even when thriving means thriving on the other side of the great river.
I believe Jesus when he said, "I am with you always...."
Keep your spirit with me, even when I fail you. And in failure, please forgive me.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God for the grace to meet both the tough and the good times in life.
Pray for all who suffer the aftermath of 9-11.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
b Or gentleness
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
psalm 18
Psalm 18 (NRSV)
.
25 With the loyal you show yourself loyal;
with the blameless you show yourself blameless;
26 with the pure you show yourself pure;
and with the crooked you show yourself perverse.
27 For you deliver a humble people,
but the haughty eyes you bring down.
28 It is you who light my lamp;
the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.
29 By you I can crush a troop,
and by my God I can leap over a wall.
30 This God—his way is perfect;
the promise of the Lord proves true;
he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
Lord,
I am reminded of the teaching of Jesus that we are forgiven only as we forgive others. The poet believes that our God-like behavior is the window through which we can see your character: Our loyalty reveals your loyalty, our blamelessness allows us to see your own, our purity becomes the window through which we can see yours.
Thank you that you reveal yourself also to the disloyal, the rightly blamed, and the impure. “While we were still sinners Christ died for us.”
However, the poet is on to something profound. Those who have received much will receive even more. Those who have absorbed your character and live your character will see even more of you. And those who refuse first insights and first lessons will be denied that which comes later.
The poet is quick to speak of humility. Living the character traits of God is more than a self-help exercise. They are the gifts of a relationship with you and come ultimately only from you. So, the poet confesses his humility in the midst of his grand victory celebration.
“It is you “who light my lamp;” you who “lights up my darkness.”
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Give thanks for the light that comes only from God.
Ask for light in the midst of your darkness.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
.
25 With the loyal you show yourself loyal;
with the blameless you show yourself blameless;
26 with the pure you show yourself pure;
and with the crooked you show yourself perverse.
27 For you deliver a humble people,
but the haughty eyes you bring down.
28 It is you who light my lamp;
the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.
29 By you I can crush a troop,
and by my God I can leap over a wall.
30 This God—his way is perfect;
the promise of the Lord proves true;
he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
Lord,
I am reminded of the teaching of Jesus that we are forgiven only as we forgive others. The poet believes that our God-like behavior is the window through which we can see your character: Our loyalty reveals your loyalty, our blamelessness allows us to see your own, our purity becomes the window through which we can see yours.
Thank you that you reveal yourself also to the disloyal, the rightly blamed, and the impure. “While we were still sinners Christ died for us.”
However, the poet is on to something profound. Those who have received much will receive even more. Those who have absorbed your character and live your character will see even more of you. And those who refuse first insights and first lessons will be denied that which comes later.
The poet is quick to speak of humility. Living the character traits of God is more than a self-help exercise. They are the gifts of a relationship with you and come ultimately only from you. So, the poet confesses his humility in the midst of his grand victory celebration.
“It is you “who light my lamp;” you who “lights up my darkness.”
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Give thanks for the light that comes only from God.
Ask for light in the midst of your darkness.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Psalm 18
Psalm 18 (NRSV)
Psalm 18
Royal Thanksgiving for Victory
(2 Sam 22.1—51)
To the leader. A Psalm of David the servant of the Lord, who addressed the words of this song to the Lord on the day when the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul. He said:
1 I love you, O Lord, my strength.
2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer,
my God, my rock in whom I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,
so I shall be saved from my enemies.
4 The cords of death encompassed me;
the torrents of perdition assailed me;
5 the cords of Sheol entangled me;
the snares of death confronted me.
6 In my distress I called upon the Lord;
to my God I cried for help.
From his temple he heard my voice,
and my cry to him reached his ears.
7 Then the earth reeled and rocked;
the foundations also of the mountains trembled
and quaked, because he was angry.
8 Smoke went up from his nostrils,
and devouring fire from his mouth;
glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9 He bowed the heavens, and came down;
thick darkness was under his feet.
10 He rode on a cherub, and flew;
he came swiftly upon the wings of the wind.
11 He made darkness his covering around him,
his canopy thick clouds dark with water.
12 Out of the brightness before him
there broke through his clouds
hailstones and coals of fire.
13 The Lord also thundered in the heavens,
and the Most High uttered his voice.a
14 And he sent out his arrows, and scattered them;
he flashed forth lightnings, and routed them.
15 Then the channels of the sea were seen,
and the foundations of the world were laid bare
at your rebuke, O Lord,
at the blast of the breath of your nostrils.
16 He reached down from on high, he took me;
he drew me out of mighty waters.
17 He delivered me from my strong enemy,
and from those who hated me;
for they were too mighty for me.
18 They confronted me in the day of my calamity;
but the Lord was my support.
19 He brought me out into a broad place;
he delivered me, because he delighted in me.
20 The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he recompensed me.
21 For I have kept the ways of the Lord,
and have not wickedly departed from my God.
22 For all his ordinances were before me,
and his statutes I did not put away from me.
23 I was blameless before him,
and I kept myself from guilt.
24 Therefore the Lord has recompensed me according to my righteousness,
according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.
Lord,
I love the phrase, “he delivered me, because he delighted in me.” I love to believe that you take delight in me, that you take delight in each of your children. Jesus caught this spirit when he proclaimed that you know each of us so intimately that you have counted the hairs of our heads. That kind of intimate knowing only comes out of powerful loving. I gasp to think of the way in which you pay attention to us and in the way that you delight in us…in me. I can hardly take it in.
Now I’m struggling. The poet is convinced that he has been rewarded for his righteousness. Maybe so. But I also remember the Apostle’s teaching that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. What am I to make of that? And is it a contradiction? I’m certain that somebody can explain it away. That’s what we do with apparent contradictions. Perhaps, even though we all sin, you reward the higher achievements in righteousness? It’s not that anybody can claim absolute righteousness but the higher grades are rewarded. Then, I wonder, how to explain Job?
Lord, I really don’t know. So how about this? Help me to do the right thing in the right way at the right time and forgive me when I am wrong. And, in the words of the old preachers, let Christ’s righteousness stand in for me. If I cannot come to you as one who is righteous, allow me to come before you as one who has been forgiven.
And when this forgiven sinner needs help, please hasten to my rescue.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to guide you through this day, to do the right thing in the right way at the right time.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Psalm 18
Royal Thanksgiving for Victory
(2 Sam 22.1—51)
To the leader. A Psalm of David the servant of the Lord, who addressed the words of this song to the Lord on the day when the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul. He said:
1 I love you, O Lord, my strength.
2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer,
my God, my rock in whom I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,
so I shall be saved from my enemies.
4 The cords of death encompassed me;
the torrents of perdition assailed me;
5 the cords of Sheol entangled me;
the snares of death confronted me.
6 In my distress I called upon the Lord;
to my God I cried for help.
From his temple he heard my voice,
and my cry to him reached his ears.
7 Then the earth reeled and rocked;
the foundations also of the mountains trembled
and quaked, because he was angry.
8 Smoke went up from his nostrils,
and devouring fire from his mouth;
glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9 He bowed the heavens, and came down;
thick darkness was under his feet.
10 He rode on a cherub, and flew;
he came swiftly upon the wings of the wind.
11 He made darkness his covering around him,
his canopy thick clouds dark with water.
12 Out of the brightness before him
there broke through his clouds
hailstones and coals of fire.
13 The Lord also thundered in the heavens,
and the Most High uttered his voice.a
14 And he sent out his arrows, and scattered them;
he flashed forth lightnings, and routed them.
15 Then the channels of the sea were seen,
and the foundations of the world were laid bare
at your rebuke, O Lord,
at the blast of the breath of your nostrils.
16 He reached down from on high, he took me;
he drew me out of mighty waters.
17 He delivered me from my strong enemy,
and from those who hated me;
for they were too mighty for me.
18 They confronted me in the day of my calamity;
but the Lord was my support.
19 He brought me out into a broad place;
he delivered me, because he delighted in me.
20 The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he recompensed me.
21 For I have kept the ways of the Lord,
and have not wickedly departed from my God.
22 For all his ordinances were before me,
and his statutes I did not put away from me.
23 I was blameless before him,
and I kept myself from guilt.
24 Therefore the Lord has recompensed me according to my righteousness,
according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.
Lord,
I love the phrase, “he delivered me, because he delighted in me.” I love to believe that you take delight in me, that you take delight in each of your children. Jesus caught this spirit when he proclaimed that you know each of us so intimately that you have counted the hairs of our heads. That kind of intimate knowing only comes out of powerful loving. I gasp to think of the way in which you pay attention to us and in the way that you delight in us…in me. I can hardly take it in.
Now I’m struggling. The poet is convinced that he has been rewarded for his righteousness. Maybe so. But I also remember the Apostle’s teaching that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. What am I to make of that? And is it a contradiction? I’m certain that somebody can explain it away. That’s what we do with apparent contradictions. Perhaps, even though we all sin, you reward the higher achievements in righteousness? It’s not that anybody can claim absolute righteousness but the higher grades are rewarded. Then, I wonder, how to explain Job?
Lord, I really don’t know. So how about this? Help me to do the right thing in the right way at the right time and forgive me when I am wrong. And, in the words of the old preachers, let Christ’s righteousness stand in for me. If I cannot come to you as one who is righteous, allow me to come before you as one who has been forgiven.
And when this forgiven sinner needs help, please hasten to my rescue.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to guide you through this day, to do the right thing in the right way at the right time.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Psalm 18
Psalm 18 (NRSV)
Psalm 18
1 I love you, O Lord, my strength.
2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer,
my God, my rock in whom I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,
so I shall be saved from my enemies.
4 The cords of death encompassed me;
the torrents of perdition assailed me;
5 the cords of Sheol entangled me;
the snares of death confronted me.
6 In my distress I called upon the Lord;
to my God I cried for help.
From his temple he heard my voice,
and my cry to him reached his ears.
7 Then the earth reeled and rocked;
the foundations also of the mountains trembled
and quaked, because he was angry.
8 Smoke went up from his nostrils,
and devouring fire from his mouth;
glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9 He bowed the heavens, and came down;
thick darkness was under his feet.
10 He rode on a cherub, and flew;
he came swiftly upon the wings of the wind.
11 He made darkness his covering around him,
his canopy thick clouds dark with water.
12 Out of the brightness before him
there broke through his clouds
hailstones and coals of fire.
13 The Lord also thundered in the heavens,
and the Most High uttered his voice.a
14 And he sent out his arrows, and scattered them;
he flashed forth lightnings, and routed them.
15 Then the channels of the sea were seen,
and the foundations of the world were laid bare
at your rebuke, O Lord,
at the blast of the breath of your nostrils.
16 He reached down from on high, he took me;
he drew me out of mighty waters.
17 He delivered me from my strong enemy,
and from those who hated me;
for they were too mighty for me.
18 They confronted me in the day of my calamity;
but the Lord was my support.
19 He brought me out into a broad place;
he delivered me, because he delighted in me.
Lord,
I’ve never had an experience like this, smoke and fire and glowing coals. Perhaps because I have never been in the poet’s fix, I’ve never experienced that kind of rescue. For whatever reason, it’s hard for me to identify.
My moments of rescue have been less dramatic: a friend appears at just the right time, a stranger proffers a deed of unexpected kindness,a quiet “coincidence” seems to make things just right, an insight “out of the blue” reveals something never before seen. These are the rescue moments that I know.
And, if I be honest, there have been times in the midst of the danger and rescue that I did not recognize your hand. I was simply trying to get out of the mess. Only in prayerful reflection did I recognize your spirit seeing me through. Accept both my confession of spiritual blindness and my profound gratitude for allowing me to see that which truly was and is.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Name the danger that you now experience and ask for God to see you through.
Give thanks to God for the escapes from danger that you have experienced in the past.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
20 The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he recompensed me.
21 For I have kept the ways of the Lord,
and have not wickedly departed from my God.
22 For all his ordinances were before me,
and his statutes I did not put away from me.
23 I was blameless before him,
and I kept myself from guilt.
24 Therefore the Lord has recompensed me according to my righteousness,
according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.
25 With the loyal you show yourself loyal;
with the blameless you show yourself blameless;
26 with the pure you show yourself pure;
and with the crooked you show yourself perverse.
27 For you deliver a humble people,
but the haughty eyes you bring down.
28 It is you who light my lamp;
the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.
29 By you I can crush a troop,
and by my God I can leap over a wall.
30 This God—his way is perfect;
the promise of the Lord proves true;
he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
31 For who is God except the Lord?
And who is a rock besides our God?—
32 the God who girded me with strength,
and made my way safe.
33 He made my feet like the feet of a deer,
and set me secure on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for war,
so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation,
and your right hand has supported me;
your helpb has made me great.
36 You gave me a wide place for my steps under me,
and my feet did not slip.
37 I pursued my enemies and overtook them;
and did not turn back until they were consumed.
38 I struck them down, so that they were not able to rise;
they fell under my feet.
39 For you girded me with strength for the battle;
you made my assailants sink under me.
40 You made my enemies turn their backs to me,
and those who hated me I destroyed.
41 They cried for help, but there was no one to save them;
they cried to the Lord, but he did not answer them.
42 I beat them fine, like dust before the wind;
I cast them out like the mire of the streets.
43 You delivered me from strife with the peoples;c
you made me head of the nations;
people whom I had not known served me.
44 As soon as they heard of me they obeyed me;
foreigners came cringing to me.
45 Foreigners lost heart,
and came trembling out of their strongholds.
46 The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock,
and exalted be the God of my salvation,
47 the God who gave me vengeance
and subdued peoples under me;
48 who delivered me from my enemies;
indeed, you exalted me above my adversaries;
you delivered me from the violent.
49 For this I will extol you, O Lord, among the nations,
and sing praises to your name.
50 Great triumphs he gives to his king,
and shows steadfast love to his anointed,
to David and his descendants forever.
[1]
a Gk See 2 Sam 22.14: Heb adds hailstones and coals of fire
b Or gentleness
c Gk Tg: Heb people
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
Psalm 18
1 I love you, O Lord, my strength.
2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer,
my God, my rock in whom I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,
so I shall be saved from my enemies.
4 The cords of death encompassed me;
the torrents of perdition assailed me;
5 the cords of Sheol entangled me;
the snares of death confronted me.
6 In my distress I called upon the Lord;
to my God I cried for help.
From his temple he heard my voice,
and my cry to him reached his ears.
7 Then the earth reeled and rocked;
the foundations also of the mountains trembled
and quaked, because he was angry.
8 Smoke went up from his nostrils,
and devouring fire from his mouth;
glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9 He bowed the heavens, and came down;
thick darkness was under his feet.
10 He rode on a cherub, and flew;
he came swiftly upon the wings of the wind.
11 He made darkness his covering around him,
his canopy thick clouds dark with water.
12 Out of the brightness before him
there broke through his clouds
hailstones and coals of fire.
13 The Lord also thundered in the heavens,
and the Most High uttered his voice.a
14 And he sent out his arrows, and scattered them;
he flashed forth lightnings, and routed them.
15 Then the channels of the sea were seen,
and the foundations of the world were laid bare
at your rebuke, O Lord,
at the blast of the breath of your nostrils.
16 He reached down from on high, he took me;
he drew me out of mighty waters.
17 He delivered me from my strong enemy,
and from those who hated me;
for they were too mighty for me.
18 They confronted me in the day of my calamity;
but the Lord was my support.
19 He brought me out into a broad place;
he delivered me, because he delighted in me.
Lord,
I’ve never had an experience like this, smoke and fire and glowing coals. Perhaps because I have never been in the poet’s fix, I’ve never experienced that kind of rescue. For whatever reason, it’s hard for me to identify.
My moments of rescue have been less dramatic: a friend appears at just the right time, a stranger proffers a deed of unexpected kindness,a quiet “coincidence” seems to make things just right, an insight “out of the blue” reveals something never before seen. These are the rescue moments that I know.
And, if I be honest, there have been times in the midst of the danger and rescue that I did not recognize your hand. I was simply trying to get out of the mess. Only in prayerful reflection did I recognize your spirit seeing me through. Accept both my confession of spiritual blindness and my profound gratitude for allowing me to see that which truly was and is.
PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Name the danger that you now experience and ask for God to see you through.
Give thanks to God for the escapes from danger that you have experienced in the past.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.
20 The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he recompensed me.
21 For I have kept the ways of the Lord,
and have not wickedly departed from my God.
22 For all his ordinances were before me,
and his statutes I did not put away from me.
23 I was blameless before him,
and I kept myself from guilt.
24 Therefore the Lord has recompensed me according to my righteousness,
according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.
25 With the loyal you show yourself loyal;
with the blameless you show yourself blameless;
26 with the pure you show yourself pure;
and with the crooked you show yourself perverse.
27 For you deliver a humble people,
but the haughty eyes you bring down.
28 It is you who light my lamp;
the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.
29 By you I can crush a troop,
and by my God I can leap over a wall.
30 This God—his way is perfect;
the promise of the Lord proves true;
he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
31 For who is God except the Lord?
And who is a rock besides our God?—
32 the God who girded me with strength,
and made my way safe.
33 He made my feet like the feet of a deer,
and set me secure on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for war,
so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation,
and your right hand has supported me;
your helpb has made me great.
36 You gave me a wide place for my steps under me,
and my feet did not slip.
37 I pursued my enemies and overtook them;
and did not turn back until they were consumed.
38 I struck them down, so that they were not able to rise;
they fell under my feet.
39 For you girded me with strength for the battle;
you made my assailants sink under me.
40 You made my enemies turn their backs to me,
and those who hated me I destroyed.
41 They cried for help, but there was no one to save them;
they cried to the Lord, but he did not answer them.
42 I beat them fine, like dust before the wind;
I cast them out like the mire of the streets.
43 You delivered me from strife with the peoples;c
you made me head of the nations;
people whom I had not known served me.
44 As soon as they heard of me they obeyed me;
foreigners came cringing to me.
45 Foreigners lost heart,
and came trembling out of their strongholds.
46 The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock,
and exalted be the God of my salvation,
47 the God who gave me vengeance
and subdued peoples under me;
48 who delivered me from my enemies;
indeed, you exalted me above my adversaries;
you delivered me from the violent.
49 For this I will extol you, O Lord, among the nations,
and sing praises to your name.
50 Great triumphs he gives to his king,
and shows steadfast love to his anointed,
to David and his descendants forever.
[1]
a Gk See 2 Sam 22.14: Heb adds hailstones and coals of fire
b Or gentleness
c Gk Tg: Heb people
[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989
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