Winding Down the Psalms

 

Read Psalms 138-140

 

If the only prayer we ever prayed is, “Thank you,” it would be enough ~ Meister Eckhart

 

Research tells us that gratitude matters and makes a difference.  For what, whom, where, and when do you give thanks as you read Psalm 138?

 

When I read Psalm 139:1, “O Lord, You have searched me and known me,” I wonder, is that good news or bad?  I mean, do I really want God to know every part of me, especially that part that holds anger at family members who hurt me, or that part of me that puts on a happy face when inside I am exhausted, or that part of me that wants harm to befall those who are hurting others?  Do I want God to know that, while I follow Jesus, Mr. Turn-the-Other-Cheek, at times I am much more invested in eye-for-eye justice and revenge being a dish best served cold?  I invite you to read Psalm 139 slowly and then do a full body scan.  This is a prayer practice where you draw a stick figure.  Around the head, write down the thoughts that are running and racing around your mind like a hamster on a wheel.  For me, I might write down concerns I have about my family, being a pastor, members of the church, and problems that keep waking me up at 4 a.m. to talk ~ because that is the best time to solve problems ~ I say sarcastically!  Then, move to your heart, what causes your heart, like the Grinch’s, to grow three sizes so far in July?  What has broken your heart recently?  Then, move to your physical body, where do you feel aches and pains ~ from your shoulders to stomach to legs to pinkie toe.  Finally, how is it with your soul ~ your soul which seeks to receive information from your head, heart, and whole self to integrate and inspire your living?

 

If you sit with Psalm 139 for a minute, or ten, suddenly Psalm 140 makes sense.  To be open to God and our fullest self is vulnerable, which will lead us to pray for God’s protection, especially because we know humans out there who seem to delight in preying and profiting off those who are least.  May these three Psalms today meet you where you are in gratitude, openness, and need for God’s sheltering, shielding, shepherding, and sustaining steadfast love.  Amen.