Today's Scripture
Psalm 111
Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.
Full of honor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever.
He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds; the Lord is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant.
He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy.
They are established forever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant forever. Holy and awesome is his name.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever. (NRSV)
Psalm 111 is a “celebration of God’s faithfulness,” conveying encouragement then and now, when admittedly, we need and welcome it. Pausing over words or phrases instead of rushing through the verses of “another praise hymn” provides depth and new meaning.
“I will extol the Lord with my heart.” Good word — extol — one we reserve for extraordinary people or events that we want to praise or glorify strongly.
“…in the council of the upright and in the assembly.” As we assemble in worship each Sunday, we remain upright or stand and sing the Doxology as a “council” or group, a heartening way of reinforcing our shared belief and gratitude.
The works of the Lord are pondered by us all, or better said, we should ponder them, not take them for granted.
Reflecting over other significant words, we are reminded that God is gracious and compassionate and of God’s covenant with the Hebrews and, now, also with us. We are reminded of the power of God’s works that reveal God as faithful and just. And God’s “precepts are trustworthy … steadfast for ever and ever,” even if sometimes we worry and wonder.
The psalm concludes by reminding us of our obligation to “fear” the Lord, a word that can be scary unless we understand the biblical meaning: having awe or reverence. The psalmist encourages us, however, that such “fear” is the beginning of wisdom and “good understanding.”
Prayer
Loving God, thank you for the simple words of scripture that reliably remind us of your care, compassion, and faithfulness. In return, help us to be reliably faithful. Amen.
Written by Rebecca Dixon, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church
Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church
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