Monday, February 3, 2020  

Today’s Scripture Reading | Psalm 15
O Lord, who may abide in your tent?
   Who may dwell on your holy hill?
Those who walk blamelessly, and do what is right,
   and speak the truth from their heart;
who do not slander with their tongue,
   and do no evil to their friends,
   nor take up a reproach against their neighbors;
in whose eyes the wicked are despised,
   but who honor those who fear the Lord;
who stand by their oath even to their hurt;
who do not lend money at interest,
   and do not take a bribe against the innocent.
Those who do these things shall never be moved. (NRSV)

Reflection
In Psalm 15 David poses the question “Who may dwell in God’s sanctuary? Who may live on God’s holy hill?” David answers describing a person who leads a blameless and righteous life, exemplifying the law of love. This is the person who speaks truth from the heart, is trustworthy and compassionate, who doesn’t slander another, who keeps a promise even at great cost, who does not expect to profit from helping another. He describes someone who does no harm and extends respect and care.

Even David came to understand that there is not one among us that can live a blameless life.

Think back to when Jesus encountered the rich young man. He told his disciples it is easier for a camel to go through an eye of a needle than to enter the kingdom of heaven. Startled, his disciples asked, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus impressed upon them that it is impossible except with God’s grace, where all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

Have you heard the quote “Life is about the journey not the destination”? Early Jewish Christians referred to their practice as “the Way.” To live a virtuous life honoring God we recognize our limits and seek the strength and wisdom to follow Christ. We are called “joint heirs” with Christ (Romans 8:17), finding partnership with God to grow in fidelity, kindness, and truth. In the wonderful film Chariots of Fire, Eric Liddell says, ‘“God made me fast, and when I run I feel God’s pleasure.”

St. Paul wrote, “I am convinced that he who began a good work in you will carry it onto completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). When we exhale our disappointments, we need to inhale this assurance that, nourished by grace, our faith cannot be shaken.

Prayer
Good Lord, as we seek to walk with the least of the lowly within ourselves and within others, may we join hands to walk together into the Heart of God. Amen. 

Written by Susan Cornelius, Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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