Psalm 119:129-136 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 119:129-136 on biblegateway.com
Verse 129Your decrees are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them.
Verse 130The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.
Verse 131With open mouth I pant, because I long for your commandments.
Verse 132Turn to me and be gracious to me, as is your custom toward those who love your name.
Verse 133Keep my steps steady according to your promise, and never let iniquity have dominion over me.
Verse 134Redeem me from human oppression, that I may keep your precepts.
Verse 135Make your face shine upon your servant, and teach me your statutes.
Verse 136My eyes shed streams of tears because your law is not kept.
Devotion
The first step in discernment is OPEN—open heart, open mind, open to receive, to absorb, to give. It is not easy to be open. Our minds and days are full of tasks, demands, and distractions. To be open requires quiet within, a time of calm, even if for just a moment. Thank God that God welcomes our intention, our longing, and never expects perfection.
My husband has cleared space in the woods next to our house as a “prayer garden” for me overlooking the Mississippi River. It is quiet there except for the wind in the trees and birdsong which are like a prayer for me. I need more time in my prayer garden—to take a deep breath and be open to God.
The psalmist says God’s word, when opened, gives light, understanding, and wisdom (v. 130). Wow! God’s word, and Christ the Word, is alive!
Prayer
Lord, may our hearts be open to receive your grace and wonder. May your face shine upon us. Slow us down so we will see the world’s beauty. Lead us to new frontiers of love. Amen.