Reading: Psalm 112:1-10

Praise the Lord! Happy are those who fear the Lord, who greatly delight in his commandments.

Their descendants will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.

Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.

They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright; they are gracious, merciful, and righteous.

It is well with those who deal generously and lend, who conduct their affairs with justice.

For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered forever.

They are not afraid of evil tidings; their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord.

Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.

They have distributed freely, they have given to the poor; their righteousness endures forever; their horn is exalted in honor.

The wicked see it and are angry; they gnash their teeth and melt away; the desire of the wicked comes to nothing.

 
Reflection

Such a positive Psalm!  “Happy are those who fear the Lord’’ if you remember fear is not necessarily bad.  Often it is a caution flag.  Whoa!  Slow down.  Heed His commandments and you will not be moved.  Respect the Lord.

But the Psalm goes on further.  Respect each other.  Be generous and share your blessings.  Conduct your affairs with justice.

Keeping God’s commandments benefits us, but the real point of keeping the law is to benefit our neighbor.  When has someone else keeping God’s law been a blessing to you?

— Alice Yeakel

Prayer

Dear God, as we obey your commandments may we remember it is not just for our benefit but to be a blessing to others. 

Amen.