We are continuing to share beloved prayers from our Book of Common Prayer (BCP). Today’s prayer comes from Linda Gibson, and it is a good reminder that the psalms are ancient prayers that are also included in the BCP, pp. 585-808. Here is a portion of Linda’s favorite, Psalm 27, that we use in Sunday worship:
Psalm 27:1, 5-13
1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom then shall I fear? *
the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom then shall I be afraid?
5 One thing have I asked of the LORD; one thing I seek; *
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life;
6 To behold the fair beauty of the LORD *
and to seek him in his temple.
7 For in the day of trouble he shall keep me safe in his shelter; *
he shall hide me in the secrecy of his dwelling and set me high upon a rock.
8 Even now he lifts up my head *
above my enemies round about me.
9 Therefore I will offer in his dwelling an oblation with sounds of great gladness; *
I will sing and make music to the LORD.
10 Hearken to my voice, O LORD, when I call; *
have mercy on me and answer me.
11 You speak in my heart and say, “Seek my face.” *
Your face, LORD, will I seek.
12 Hide not your face from me, *
nor turn away your servant in displeasure.
13 You have been my helper; cast me not away; *
do not forsake me, O God of my salvation.
(BCP, p. 832)
Linda writes: “I have clung to Psalm 27 most of my adult life. I feel protected from the mean people I have met in my lifetime.”
May we also find protection through prayer!
Title: Icon of Christ Feeding the Multitude; Date: 20th century; Object/Function: Painting, panel; Scripture: Matthew 14:13-21, John 6:1-21. Permalink: https://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-imagelink.pl?RC=57436. (Use this link to refer back to this image.)
