Psalm 112 (NRSV)
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Verse 1Praise the Lord! Happy are those who fear the Lord, who greatly delight in his commandments.
Verse 2Their descendants will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.
Verse 3Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.
Verse 4They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright; they are gracious, merciful, and righteous.
Verse 5It is well with those who deal generously and lend, who conduct their affairs with justice.
Verse 6For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered forever.
Verse 7They are not afraid of evil tidings; their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord.
Verse 8Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.
Verse 9They have distributed freely, they have given to the poor; their righteousness endures forever; their horn is exalted in honor.
Verse 10The wicked see it and are angry; they gnash their teeth and melt away; the desire of the wicked comes to nothing.
Devotion
Our psalmist begins with a shout of joy: “Hallelujah!” This should continually be our response to God’s word for us, for living and abiding in God’s word is simply the best way to live. The psalmist even offers examples of how to live this life: to be generous, to manage with justice, to live without fear of evil, to be steadfast, to trust in the Lord, and to give freely to the poor. This way of living does not lead to righteousness; rather, it is the result of righteousness. It is precisely when we empower others, when we extend mercy and compassion to others in their oppression, that we live out the mercy and compassion God first has extended to us.
Prayer
Gracious God of mercy and compassion, let the light shine in the darkness so that we may share your abundant love and grace with all those who so desperately need it. Help us to be generous, just, to live without fear, and to always be steadfast, trusting in you, O Lord. For you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life, now and forever. Amen.