Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 – Pentecost 8A

Living Psalms Book

Psalms in the form of words and art, reborn in the specific contexts of our world, privileging the voices of historically marginalized communities and those acting in solidarity with them.

O God, you have searched me and known me.
When she died, I felt so alone,
but you were there.
When the depression took me
to the edge, so I thought I’d topple,
you held onto me.
When I looked the other way
pretending not to hear that slur,
see their eyes roll,
you raked my conscience
making me turn and try again.
And then, when I’m most self-sufficient and sure,
you humble me, reminding me
of the people you put in my life,
the circumstances that helped me grow.
Sometimes I wish you weren’t so close, God,
I wish you’d mind your own business
instead of mine.
Don’t listen to me, Holy One—I’m just being me—
stay right where you are.
Keep me in your sights
and on right paths always
(please).

Living-Psalm-139_Benton-Eighth-Sunday-after-Pentecost-July-23-2023 Download

Living Psalm for Pentecost 8A – Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 was written by Sharon A. Benton.

Living Psalms Book is created by UCC Witness & Worship Artists’ Group, a Network of UCC connected artists, activists and ministers bridging the worship and liturgy of the local church with witness and action in the community. Maren Tirabassi, editor

Logo is detail from Living Psalm 80 by Sophia Beardemphl, Redwoods, CA. Recovering from significant bullying, Sophia, age nine, read Psalm 80 and thought of brokenness that needs mending. She drew this broken and mended bowl.