A very good Labor Day to everyone! We are starting the final week of our 21-day challenge. My prayer is that this may establish, or extend, a habit of being in scripture and prayer on a regular basis. These two practices are the bedrock upon which a life of discipleship is built. We will again be following the weekly lectionary passages to help guide us for the next four days.

Psalm 19 (NRSV)

1 The heavens are telling the glory of God;

and the firmament 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 voice goes out through all the earth,

and their words to the end of the world.

In the heavens 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.

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;

do not let them have dominion over me.

Then I shall be blameless,

and innocent of great transgression.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart

be acceptable to you,

O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Reflection

One of the most quoted and often read psalms is Psalm 19. It gives a robust description of how the Word of the Lord is revealed and it’s impact. It is a text that reminds me that my life needs a compass of right and wrong. My internal compass is flawed – as is yours if I may be so bold- and needs to be constantly recalibrated. God working through scripture does just that. For it is scripture that orients us to the bigger picture and reminds us that we are not alone in this journey.

Prayer

Father, Son and Holy Spirit, thank you for your Word which reveals your grace and truth. May it be for me the very foundation upon which my life is built. Point out the places in my life that need to be renewed and give me the courage to open my life to the work of your Spirit to do just that.