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