Thoughts for the Day

The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
making wise the simple;
the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring for ever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.

Moreover by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Why do I do what I dislike in others? Or as St Paul says, "I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate." (Romans 7.15). Or for that matter, why do I think what I would despise if others thought it? No matter how hard I try I fail much of the time, and end up having to confess to the same sins over and over again to God. I never seem to improve! Do you recognise any of this in yourself?

Psalm 19 reminds us that 'law of the Lord is perfect' and the 'commandment of the Lord is clear'. Notice that the word 'Yahweh' (translated 'Lord') is used six times in this part of the psalm - God's revealed name - rather than the earlier 'El' the least specific name for God! For us Psalm 19 also reminds us of the perfect law given to us by God's Son, distilled into the words we know so well - 'Love God, and love your neighbour as yourself'.

I have vivid memories of a young Christian at secretarial college - she never criticised others, always offered to help, didn't moan, would allow others to get to the one radiator in the room that winter, and always gave people a welcoming smile. Her faith shone out of her. The fact that I have never forgotten her after 62 years says something important to me, so I shall pick up the baton and try to do better this day. Do join me!

Lord God,
You know all our imperfections,
and our failure to obey Your law of love.
We acknowledge this sometimes
but often don't even try to change.
We also fail to love You as You deserve,
and can give You little attention.
We ask Your forgiveness
and the strength in the power of the Spirit
to change our attitudes and our life.
Amen.