Saturday, February 25, 2017

Today’s Scripture Reading  |  Psalm 119:33–40

Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes,
   and I will observe it to the end.
Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
   and observe it with my whole heart.
Lead me in the path of your commandments,
   for I delight in it.
Turn my heart to your decrees,
   and not to selfish gain.
Turn my eyes from looking at vanities;
   give me life in your ways.
Confirm to your servant your promise,
   which is for those who fear you.
Turn away the disgrace that I dread,
   for your ordinances are good.
See, I have longed for your precepts;
   in your righteousness give me life. (NRSV)

Reflection
Psalms is my most favorite book to read in the Bible. I love the wide range of emotions and the heartfelt prayers that are shared in each psalm. Psalm 119, the longest in the book of Psalms, has these characteristics: the psalmist rejoices, feels discouraged, shows gratitude, asks for guidance, and prays for many of the same things that we pray for each day. How things change, yet stay the same throughout time!

On January 21, I had the privilege to walk united with hundreds of thousands of brothers and sisters in the Women’s March on Chicago. Several participants carried signs as we rallied and marched down Jackson Avenue. The overall themes of many of these signs were love, inclusion, unity, and freedom for all, regardless of our background, beliefs, gender, or sexual orientation. It was a powerful event, and we all could feel the strength, love, and unity among us. (I could feel it even at the bus stop on the way to the march!) What would it look like if the church marched together as one?

The prayer of the psalmist in today’s passage is a prayer that we all need to remember each and every day. We need to pray for guidance and help in following God’s ways, and above all, we must love one another, no matter what.

Prayer
Loving and gracious God, remind me each and every day to remember your teachings of love. Give me guidance and strength as I journey through today, showing your love to each and every person that I encounter. Amen.

Written by Briana Belding-Peck, Family Ministry Coordinator

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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