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Psalm 65(Good News Translation)
Monday
November 16, 2009
Called to be Free to Give God Thanks and Praise
Introduction
Psalm 65: The psalmist describes the relationship between God and the people. People offer praise because God answers prayer. Despite their sins, God forgives. God uses power to control creation and to work for justice throughout the world. All of creation responds to God's works.
Today's Scripture: Psalm 65:8b
Your deeds bring shouts of joy from one end of the earth to the other.
How is this Scripture passage speaking to me today?
Today's Reading
1O God, it is right for us to praise you in Zion and keep our promises to you,2because you answer prayers. People everywhere will come to you3on account of their sins. Our faults defeat us, but you forgive them.4Happy are those whom you choose, whom you bring to live in your sanctuary. We shall be satisfied with the good things of your house, the blessings of your sacred Temple.5You answer us by giving us victory, and you do wonderful things to save us. People all over the world and across the distant seas trust in you.6You set the mountains in place by your strength, showing your mighty power.7You calm the roar of the seas and the noise of the waves; you calm the uproar of the peoples.8The whole world stands in awe of the great things that you have done. Your deeds bring shouts of joy from one end of the earth to the other.9You show your care for the land by sending rain; you make it rich and fertile. You fill the streams with water; you provide the earth with crops. This is how you do it:10you send abundant rain on the plowed fields and soak them with water; you soften the soil with showers and cause the young plants to grow.11What a rich harvest your goodness provides! Wherever you go there is plenty.12The pastures are filled with flocks; the hillsides are full of joy.13The fields are covered with sheep; the valleys are full of wheat. Everything shouts and sings for joy.Reflect
Reread 65:9-13. At the time this psalm was written, Israel's neighbors, the Canaanites, believed that the god Baal sent the rain that made the crops grow. But this psalm says that it is God who sends the rain that brings rich harvests and fertile pastures where sheep and goats can graze. When we buy food in supermarkets, sometimes we become disconnected from the fertile fields that bring forth the fruits of the earth. How can the nourishment God gives us through the land inform our understanding of the spiritual nourishment God provides through the Holy Spirit?
Pray
Lord God and Great Harvester, you bring good food for your creation. The pastures are filled with flocks and the hillsides are full of joy. The fields are covered with sheep and the valleys are full of wheat. May the abundance you bring forth on earth make me mindful of your abundant love. Amen.
Prayer Concern
Those who have lost crops or livestock due to flooding
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