Reflection: February 22, 2024
Spend a moment with Psalm 25:1-9 from the NLT and “Psalms for Praying” by Nan Merrill below:
NLT:
O Lord, I give my life to you.
I trust in you, my God!
Do not let me be disgraced,
or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.
No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced,
but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.
Show me the right path, O Lord;
point out the road for me to follow.
Lead me by your truth and teach me,
for you are the God who saves me.
All day long I put my hope in you.
Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love,
which you have shown from long ages past.
Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth.
Remember me in the light of your unfailing love,
for you are merciful, O Lord.
The Lord is good and does what is right;
he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
He leads the humble in doing right,
teaching them his way.
Psalms for Praying:
To You, O Love, I lift up my soul; O Heart within my heart, in You I place my trust. Let me not feel unworthy; let not fear rule over me. Yes! let all who open their hearts savor You and bless the earth!
Compel me to know your ways, O Love; instruct me upon your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for through You will I know wholeness;
I shall reflect your light both day and night.
I know of your mercy, Compassionate One, and of your steadfast love. You have been with me
from the beginning. Forgive the many times I have walked away from You choosing to walk alone. With your steadfast love, once again, Companion me along your way.
You are gracious and just, O Spirit of Truth, happy to guide those who miss their way;
You enjoy teaching all who are open, all who choose to live in truth.
Your paths are loving and sure, O Holy One, for those who give witness to You through their lives.
Consider your “path” for a few moments. Stop on the path, turn around and reflect on where you have been. Then, facing forward, notice what it looks like here around you. Can you picture what it looks like? Is anyone walking with you?
We offer this breath prayer to you:
Inhale: Held in Your mercy
Exhale: Held in Your love