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October 14, 2007 - 20th Sunday after Pentecost
- 1Praise the LORD!
- I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart,
- in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
- 2Great are the works of the LORD,
- studied by all who delight in them.
- 3Full of honor and majesty is his work,
- and his righteousness endures forever.
- 4He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds;
- the LORD is gracious and merciful.
- 5He provides food for those who fear him;
- he is ever mindful of his covenant.
- 10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
- all those who practice it have a good understanding.
- His praise endures forever.
-- Psalm 111:1-5, 10
You have heard the phrase “practice makes perfect”. I don’t know about perfect,
but practicing certainly makes things more familiar and internalized. Just ask any
musician how notes move from black dots on paper to beautiful music. Ask a craftsperson
how basic tools and supplies become creative works of art.
It is the same with giving thanks. The more we practice giving thanks to God
the more it becomes a part of life. The more we practice “thanks-giving” the more open
we are to wholeness and healing as we recognize the great works, deeds,
and wonders of the Lord.
For what do you need to give thanks this day?
We pray: Almighty and most merciful God, your bountiful goodness fills
all creation. Keep us safe from all that may hurt us, that whole and well in body
and spirit we may with grateful hearts accomplish all that you would have us do,
through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen
Lessons for the 20th Sunday after Pentecost:
- Psalm 111
- 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15c
- 2 Timothy 2:8-15
- Luke 17:11-19
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible,
copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the
National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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