Psalm 34

  1. I will give Grandfather (God) the honor he deserves. Honor songs to him will flow like a never-ending river from my mouth.
  2. With all my being I will boast about Grandfather. The poor with broken spirits will hear, and their hearts will dance for joy.
  3. Let us enter the circle together and sing and dance songs of honor as we stay in step with Creator’s heartbeat on the drum.
  4. I went to Grandfather for help. He heard my voice, snatched me out of the darkness, and set me free from all I feared.
  5. The faces of those who look to him shine like the sun. They will never again hang their heads in shame.
  6. This poor man with a broken spirit, with a loud voice sent up a prayer, and Grandfather heard his cry.
  7. Grandfather’s spirit-messenger pitches a circle of tipis around those who have deep respect for him, to keep them safe from harm.
  8. Grandfather is good. Taste his goodness and you will know his sweetness for yourself. Harmony and well-being rest on those who go to him for shelter from harm.

First Nations Version

Reflection

Take a few moments to quiet your body, mind and soul with at least three deep breaths – inhaling fully and exhaling slowly. Take a moment to acknowledge God is with you here in this moment. Slowly read the verses above from Psalm 34 from the First Nations Version of the Bible or you can read it in your own translation. Read through the scripture slowly – notice is there is a word or phrase that draws your attention. Write the word or phrase down. Read through a second time, again, notice if there is a word or phrase that stands out and write it down. Spend time with the what you notice with God. Does it resonate with something in your life right now? Perhaps there is a question or connection with the two words or phrases – write it down. Perhaps there is an invitation to consider something deeper with God. Take as long as you like with God in conversation.  Hold the conversation in gratitude with God.