Thoughts for the Day

The Lord is my portion;
I promise to keep your words.
I implore your favour with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to your promise.
When I think of your ways,
I turn my feet to your decrees;
I hurry and do not delay
to keep your commandments.....

Teach me good judgement and knowledge,
for I believe in your commandments....

Your hands have made and fashioned me;
give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,
because I have hoped in your word.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

When a will is read family members are often left various bequests. It can be such a delight to be remembered and given a portion of their estate. Today's reading from Psalm 119 picks up this idea of a 'portion'.

Psalm 119 is a giant among the psalms. It's an acrostic psalm, that is, it's an alphabet of prayers and thoughts about the Word of God. The writer gives each Hebrew letter the chance to introduce the next eight verses. There are 22 letters in the Hebrew alphabet, and today's section starts with the eighth letter, Heth, (rather like our H) but which is said at the back of the throat rather as we might say "kh".

The Psalmist exclaims at the opening that the 'Lord is his portion'. His soul is satisfied with the portion he has received because that portion is the Lord Himself. In the Covenant made with His prophets He promised to be their shield and protector. Through the Eucharist today He feeds and nourishes us spiritually. We too must join the psalmist to delight in carrying out His commandments, and living in hope for the future.

Lord God,
may we delight in the portion
You have given us -
that You are our God
and we are Your people.
May we rejoice in the hope
You have set before us,
and learn to follow Your commandments
with understanding.
Amen.