1 Praise the Lord!
How good it is to sing praises to our God;
for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting.
2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the outcasts of Israel.
3 He heals the broken-hearted,
and binds up their wounds.
4 He determines the number of the stars;
he gives to all of them their names.
5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power;
his understanding is beyond measure.
6 The Lord lifts up the downtrodden;
he casts the wicked to the ground.
7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
make melody to our God on the lyre.
8 He covers the heavens with clouds,
prepares rain for the earth,
makes grass grow on the hills.
9 He gives to the animals their food,
and to the young ravens when they cry.
10 His delight is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner;
11 but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him,
in those who hope in his steadfast love.
Prayer:
God of love, you heal the broken-hearted and bind up their wounds. You lift up the downtrodden and offer understanding beyond measure. This day, help us to hope in your steadfast love. Draw near to us and encourage us to see the needs of our neighbors. Give us your eyes for kindness and inclusion—in the dining hall, on the way to class, at rehearsals and study meetings—help us to see the world as you see it, embracing all with patience and love. Amen.
Written by Rev. Hannah Lundberg, UKirk@UMich (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
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