Instruction | May 14, 2019

May 14, 2019

DAILY READING

This weekend’s reading: Matthew 22:34-40
Read the psalm aloud with expression and feeling. How does this psalm compare to the way you pray when you feel like the writer does?

Psalm 15 (a psalm of David)

Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent?
    Who may live on your holy mountain?

The one whose walk is blameless,
    who does what is righteous,
    who speaks the truth from their heart;
whose tongue utters no slander,
    who does no wrong to a neighbor,
    and casts no slur on others;
who despises a vile person
    but honors those who fear the Lord;
who keeps an oath even when it hurts,
    and does not change their mind;
who lends money to the poor without interest;
    who does not accept a bribe against the innocent.

Whoever does these things
    will never be shaken.

FIELD NOTES

All books of Scripture, both Old Testament and New, are inspired by God and useful for instruction, as the apostle says; but to those who really study it the Psalter yields especial treasure. Within it are represented and portrayed in all their variety the movements of the human soul. It is like a picture, in which you see yourself portrayed and, seeing, may understand and consequently form yourself upon the pattern given. [St. Athanasius from “On the Incarnation”]

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD 

Consider these questions as you reread the psalm:

• Is there a promise to claim?
• Is there a lesson to learn?
• Is there a blessing to enjoy?
• Is there a command to obey?
• Is there a sin to avoid?
• Is there a new thought to carry with me?

PRAYER GUIDE

Teach me your ways, the paths of right relationship with you and with my neighbor.  Speak a word of guidance to me each day. Prepare me to best use the gifts you have given me at exactly the right time, in exactly the right place. Join my heart to your heart! Amen.