Tuesday 20 September 2022

Psalm 61

Background

So what are we to learn from reading these verses from the book of Proverbs? In many ways these words continue the guidance for what it is to live a life in accordance with God’s will. Although the first verse speaks of having a good name, that does not mean that we should be seeking prestige or a higher role in society, but that we live faithful and sensible lives as good neighbours, giving all people equal merit and doing our best to see the value in all, whether rich or poor.

The riches the writer speaks of are not necessarily monetary riches but are more about contentment and living a life of care and generosity of spirit. Again the writer is encouraging the reader to take care in bringing up their children to live good lives, seeing justice and love as being the measure of good and fruitful lives. The central theme of these verses is generosity, not just of mind, but also in practical terms as in verse 9 “Those who are generous are blessed for they share their bread with the poor".

The hymn suggested for today ('God whose farm is all creation' Singing the Faith 122) has a similar theme, despite being one of the harvest hymns. We are reminded by the writer John Arlott that Creation is God’s farm and that the products of that farm are available and are to be shared widely among the people made in God's image. It's a picture of generosity, not only of spirit but in practical terms as well. The proverbs we read in these passages are not just short comments by which we may mark the seasons as the one I quoted yesterday, but are words of wisdom guiding us into the way our creator wanted his people to be.They are well worth reflecting on each day as we move on in life in these difficult times.

To Ponder:

• What does having a good name mean to you?
• How would you regard generosity of spirit? Is it just something for those who deserve help or something else?
• Do these words of wisdom challenge you as you read?

Prayer

Lord, as we hear the wisdom of your words we ask that you will through your Holy Spirit encourage and help us to do our best to live our lives in accordance with your wishes. We pray that we can share the riches of the love we receive from you with others who do not yet know you, and that our generosity of spirit might encourage others to follow the way you would have them go. We pray in the name of Jesus your son, Amen.