Psalm 112
What does a life shaped by and following in the way of God look like?
And what part do I have to play in it?
For Lutherans and Christians, the answer, if there ever is a clear one, can sometimes seem confusing. In some way, our lives, and life itself, are not our own. They are a gift of God’s Grace. And yet, God gifts us with life in a manner that sets us out into the world. A world in which we make decisions and act in all sorts of ways, sometimes good and other times rather chaotic.
This Psalm, in its poetic language and format, describes the shape and way of a life of a righteous person. That is, a person who is living in the “right” relationship with God, with others, and with all of creation.
We are right to be in community with God and others.
We are right to be gracious, merciful, and just.
We are right to have peace and assurance even when the world is shaking around us.
We are right to not hold onto that which we have too tight but give freely.
We are right to try to follow the rules and laws.
And yet, we are made right well before we know right (or wrong). Our lives are not our own but a gift. And God does not need our right living, but our neighbor does.
A life shaped and following in the way of God looks like grace, mercy, justice, peace, and generosity.
Let us cling to the gift of faith and be shaped by God and sent out into this world to live well with others.
Questions for Reflection:
- How do you know what is right?
- What practices and people help you live out your faith in the world?
Prayer:
God of righteousness and grace,
Gift us faith so that we may live well with you and others.
Help us to do the right thing.
Amen.
Login To Leave Comment