lenten prayer guide

AHolyLent

Lenten Prayer Guide

I invite you therefore, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance;

by prayer, fasting and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God’s holy Word.

(Book of Common Prayer, Ash Wednesday, p. 264)

4550 Legacy DrivePlano, Texas 75024972-618-0222ChristChurchPlano.org

All rights reserved. Copyright © 2012 Christ Church Plano The Rev. Jason Bowman, Associate Pastor for Adult DiscipleshipThe Rev. Canon David H. Roseberry, Rector

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Prayers and collects used from The Book of Common Prayer, 1979 (United States) and The Book of Common Prayer (Church of Ireland) copyright © RCB 2004

Cover artwork adaptation: Copyright © 2012 Graceway Media. All rights reserved.

Christ Church Plano Introduction 7

Introduction Lent is a season set apart for special emphasis on prayer, reflection and repentance. It is a season ripe for spiritual growth as we set aside 40 days to devote ourselves to the practice of a holy Lent. This year, we enter into this season together through the corporate practices of prayer, fasting and alms-giving. We are calling on our church to stand as a unified body before the Lord through the observance of these three disciplines.

Fasting

We will fast together three times during this season with a different focus each time.

February 22 •This fast helps us to prepare for the season of Lent. During this fast, ask the Lord to make your heart ready for Lent. Spend time seeking God and praying for perseverance to remain faithful throughout the season. Finally, ask God to reveal more of Himself through Lent and to help you and our church grow as disciples of Jesus Christ.

March 19 •Fasting helps us to center our attention on God and creates more time to devote to prayer. During this fast, focus on an area in your life where you’re seeking God’s guidance or deliverance. Let this fast be a means of concentrating and laying before God a need in your life or in the life of your family.

April 6 •On this day we turn our attention to the crucifixion. This fast is to set our minds firmly and solely on the passion of Christ. This is a day of sacrifice and reflection on the great love of God revealed in the suffering and death of our savior.

Introduction Lenten Prayer Guide8

Almsgiving

Around the campus you will discover boxes for the collection of alms throughout Lent. Alms are an offering that is above and beyond the tithe, given purely for the sake of those in need. We are asking you to sacrifice something that is a privilege, but not a necessity (such as going out to dinner, daily Starbucks®, etc.), in addition to whatever else God lays on your heart, and put that money in the alms boxes.

All collected money will be divided among three local charities to help children and families who are homeless and have no means of supporting themselves. Lent prepares us to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but for that to happen, God had to sacrifice his only Son for our sake. Lent is a time for us to sacrifice for the sake of others.

Prayer

Prayer is the centerpiece of our shared Lenten observance. This is a call to a daily time of prayer and reflection on scripture. This Lenten Prayer Guide uses central elements from the Daily Office of Morning Prayer in the Book of Common Prayer (BCP). This guide offers 40 days worth of prayer and reflec-tions utilizing Psalm 119 as the foundation for meditation and spiritual growth.

How to Use This Guide

Each day is dated to make it easy to follow along. It will not take you long to notice there are no Sundays. This is not a mistake or an oversight. It is an integral component of the season of Lent. For six days we focus on our sin and on repentance, but Sunday is different. Sunday is the day we celebrate the resurrection of Christ! This distinction is nowhere more obvious or won-derful than it is during the season of Lent because it contrasts so starkly with the other days. This is intentional. We want everyone to grasp the amazing wonder, beauty and joy of the resurrection of Jesus Christ!

You are encouraged to use this prayer guide for yourself, but also consider how your family might participate in this time together. Lent is a great opportunity to step outside of your normal routine and open up to the working of the Holy Spirit in a special way. Take advantage of this season for yourself and your fam-ily. Make a commitment to stand with our parish this Lent by fasting, giving and daily prayer by using this guide to seek the Lord and reflect on His word.

Christ Church Plano Introduction 9

And finally, here are some brief descriptions and suggested uses for the sections in each day’s prayer guide.

Opening: Each day begins with a short scripture appropriate to the season of Lent. This scripture helps to set the tone and prepares us for confession and reflection.

Confession: There are seven different forms of confession within this prayer guide. Among these are confessions from the Irish BCP, an Anglican Prayer Book based on the 1662 BCP and Psalm 51. Begin this portion with a personal request to God to bring to mind your sins. Then pray the confession both for yourself and as part of the body of Christ.

Psalm 119: Read the portion of the psalm given for the day’s reflection. Consider read-ing the four verses slowly and silently, then re-reading them aloud. After going through the notes and personal reflection that follow this reading, go back one more time and read the verses again.

Notes on Psalm 119: This psalm is very long and at times can appear repetitious. The notes are written to help you gain a deeper understanding and greater appreciation for the depth and beauty of psalm 119. These notes will aid in tying verses together, make comments on Hebrew words and grammar and explain some of the images and difficult sayings within the psalm. Our prayer is that these notes will help bring this amazing psalm to life.

Personal Reflection on Psalm 119: Growing in faith happens not only as we read and learn the scriptures, but as we take time to think on truth, evaluate our lives and practice what we study. These reflections are intended to help us do those very things. To get the most out of this portion, give yourself a little time. These are designed to encourage application of the psalm to one’s life, but without providing good thought and honest reflection, their impact will be hindered.

Prayer: There are three areas of prayer for each day. These are not meant to be re-strictive, simply to give some basic guidance during this time.

Introduction Lenten Prayer Guide10

Thanksgiving1. is a wonderful way to begin. Take time to thank God for what He is doing or has done in your life, for what He has done in the lives of others you know, what He is doing in the world, for His character or His love or His grace, for His word. You may try thinking through or even writing out a list before you begin this time.

Intercession2. for others and for yourself follows. Lift up prayer on behalf of those around you, your family, neighbors, the church, the government, the world and yourself. If you are not sure what to pray, consider looking in the Book of Common Prayer, pp. 810-841, which contains prayers for all kinds of occasions.

The Lord’s Prayer3. is a good way of ending this time. When the disciples wanted to know how to pray, they came to Jesus and asked. This prayer was the result.

Collect: Each day closes with a collect specific to that day’s reading and reflection. A collect is an ancient prayer form that follows the following pattern:

Invocation – speaking a name of God•

Statement about God – a quality of God’s character related to the •name of God invoked

Petition – the part of the prayer that asks something•

Anticipated result – usually a continuation of the petitioning •sentence; it usually begins with the word “that” and declares the hopeful outcome

Affirmation – “Amen” which means “let it be” and is the opportu-•nity for those praying to join their voices in agreement to the words of the prayer

May God bless you and your family this Lent as your dedicate yourself to Him and join the body of Christ Church in observing a holy Lent.

Christ Church Plano Day 1, Ash Wednesday (Day of Fasting) 11

Lent: Day 1Ash Wednesday - February 22, 2012

Rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster. Joel 2:13

Confession

Almighty and most merciful Father, we have erred and strayed from thy ways like lost sheep, we have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts, we have offended against thy holy laws, we have left undone those things which we ought to have done and we have done those things which we ought not to have done. But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us, spare thou those who confess their faults, restore thou those who are peni-tent, according to thy promises declared unto mankind in Christ Jesus our Lord; and grant, O most merciful Father, for his sake, that we may hereafter live a godly, righteous and sober life, to the glory of thy holy Name. Amen.

Psalm 119:1-4

1 Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD! 2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, 3 who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! 4 You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently.

Notes on Psalm 119:1-4

The psalm begins with a beatitude, which is a statement about being blessed. Jesus, in his teaching to the disciples in Matthew 5, spoke words of bless-

Day ofFasting

Day 1, Ash Wednesday (Day of Fasting) Lenten Prayer Guide12

ing that have come to be known as the beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount. The most common word for blessing in the Old Testament refers to the divine favor of God on a person that comes by God’s grace. However, in this opening verse of Psalm 119, there is a different word for blessing and the difference is very significant. This word for blessing refers to the joy and contentment a person receives as a result of one’s conduct. In other words, the way a person responds to God’s word determines whether a person is blessed.

So, what is the conduct that leads to this blessing? The first is daily living which is right and good in every way, according to God’s law (1:1). The second is being intentionally attentive to what God has declared in His word (1:2a). The third is passionately inquiring of God about how to live (1:2b). Each of these overlaps, yet also gives us a slightly different angle. Joy and contentment come to those whose daily actions are right and good, who are determinedly paying attention to what God is declaring and who then take it the next step by personally seeking God. All of this is done not only for the blessing, but because God himself has charged that his orders be faithfully kept (1:4). The beginning of true joy and contentment is found in seeking God’s ways with all of one’s heart, mind, emotion, will and strength and then living according to them.

Personal Reflection on Psalm 119:1-4

In what ways does your life reflect the three kinds of conduct mentioned in this psalm? What are some ways in this season of Lent that might help you align your way of life more closely to this way of life?

Prayer

Thanksgiving, Intercession and the Lord’s Prayer

Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: help us to live blamelessly before you, make our minds attentive to your ways and fill us with a passion to seek you with all our heart that we may know the joy and contentment that comes only through life with you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Christ Church Plano Day 2 13

Lent: Day 2Thursday, February 23, 2012

Rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster. Joel 2:13 Confession


Psalm 119:5-8

5 Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! 6 Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. 7 I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules. 8 I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me!


The psalmist expresses a heartfelt desire that he truly keep God’s law faith-fully (1:5). Deep down, in his heart and soul, this is what he truly wants to

Day 2 Lenten Prayer Guide14

do. Yet, he knows his actions fall short of the perfect obedience his heart longs for. If he did keep God’s law, then he would not feel the guilt and shame he feels when he looks upon the Law he regularly breaks (1:6). Even though he breaks God’s law, that does not change the fact that in his heart, he sincerely wants to obey. This is why he can say that he will give God glory with an “upright heart” as he learns more of what God desires from him (1:7). This section ends not just with a wish or explanation, but with his commitment to make the outward match the inward, to align his actions with the desire of his heart. He pledges to truly follow the ways of the Lord, but he also pleads that God not abandon him as he struggles to make his life conform to the calling of God. (1:8)


Think about the ways that your desires to follow God match up or don’t match up with your actions. If during Lent you were to make the kind of commitment to follow God that the psalmist made, what are some things you could do to help live out that promise?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: help us come before you in honesty, build in us a deeper desire to follow your ways and give us the grace to carry it out, that we may please and honor you all the days of our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 3Friday, February 24, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:9-12

9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. 10 With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! 11 I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. 12 Blessed are you, O LORD; teach me your statutes!


The psalmist wants to know how, by starting early in life, a person can con-tinually keep his way of living pure and unmixed with the corruption of the


world. The only way he knows to do this is by guarding his way of life with God’s word (1:9). The word “guard” refers to how a sentry would keep watch or a solider would look after a captive. If the young person lets God’s word be a watchman over his way of life, it will keep that life pure. With that desire in mind, he declares that he will commit his whole heart to seeking God and pleads with God not to let him wander away from the commandments that have captured his heart (1:10). Even more, he has put God’s word deep in his heart and mind, treating it like a valuable treasure because he does not want to fall short in his relationship to God (1:11). Then he cries out that God is blessed as giver of the Law, but also appeals to God, whom he is prais-ing and seeking, to be his teacher (1:12).


Are there ways that God’s word works like a sentry in your life? When the words of God are planted deep in our hearts through hearing and meditating and believing, it can change our lives. What are some ways you are putting God’s word into your heart?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and for-give the sins of all who are penitent: plant an earnest and joyful love of your word within our hearts and minds that we might eagerly desire to walk in your ways and rejoice in your truth to your honor and glory and for our good; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 4Saturday, February 25, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:13-16

13 With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth. 14 In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches. 15 I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. 16 I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.


The psalmist implored God to teach him in verse 12, but now he begins to tell of the ways he will teach himself as well. First, he will recount with his


lips the rules that came from God’s mouth. He will do this by telling others of God’s rules and by speaking them regularly throughout his day (as Deu-teronomy 6:7 exhorts us to do). This will provide accountability as he tells others the wonderful word of God and help that word be more firmly fixed in his own life (1:13). He then adds a new element. The heart (or “inner man” in Hebrew) has to do mostly with the mind and will, but not necessarily with emotions as we might think when we use the word “heart” today. How-ever, in this next verse, he brings in his emotions as well. The way of God is not a burden to the psalmist, but, rather, he rejoices in God’s way just like he would if he were given all the treasure in the world (1:14). Not only will he regularly speak of God’s rules and rejoice in them, but he will also turn them over and over in his mind while setting himself on a path that follows God’s ordinances (1:15). He will find great pleasure in God’s statutes and by approaching God’s word in so many ways, he will surely not set it aside and forget about it (1:16).


In what ways do you love God’s word? Being honest, in what ways do you not love God’s word? Spend time asking God to give you a heart for his word.

Think about the multiple ways that the psalmist brings God’s word into his life. Are there ways you might bring God’s word into your life that you cur-rently do not practice?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: in your great mercy create in us a deeper love for your word and greater desire to follow in your ways that we may be the people you have called us to be; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 5Monday, February 27, 2012

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:8-9

Confession

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word and deed, by what we have done and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Psalm 119:17-20

17 Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. 18 Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law. 19 I am a sojourner on the earth; hide not your commandments from me! 20 My soul is consumed with longing for your rules at all times.


The psalmist begins by asking God to “deal” with him. The translation above adds a word that is not in the Hebrew: “bountifully.” This might imply material blessing from God, but that is not what the psalmist is seeking. Rather, he wants just two things: to live and to obey God’s word. As a “servant” of God, he believes his knowledge of God’s word and his obedience


to it cannot happen without God’s intervention. The request, then, is simply for God to move in his life—to act! The next two verses elucidate what the psalmist is seeking from his master (17).

First, he wants God to allow him to see the amazing things that are in the Law. Unless God reveals this to him, the psalmist is like a blind man who cannot see it (18). He even offers a reason why he so desperately wants God to open his eyes. The psalmist views himself as a foreigner in a foreign land … lost, anxious and without direction. He begs God to open his blind eyes and not hide from him the wondrous truth that will guide his life (19). In fact, this desire is so great, he says, that his longing to know and follow God’s word is literally “crushing” his soul. He understands how valuable and vital God’s word truly is to his life, so he has thrown all his energy, passion and prayers into knowing and obeying it (20).


The Bible teaches that our citizenship is in heaven and that we look forward to a new heaven and a new earth. This is not our home. We are foreigners. Our only guidebook to living in this world in a way that reflects the eternal life we look forward to is found in God’s word. Think about what it is like to be in a foreign place. How important is God’s word to us now in this life as we await our eternal destiny?

Spend time asking God to help you grasp the significance of His word for your everyday life.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: open our eyes to your truth and form in our souls a desperate longing to know your Word so that we might please you in this life as we wait for our full redemption in the next; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 6Tuesday, February 28, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:21-24

21 You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones, who wander from your commandments. 22 Take away from me scorn and contempt, for I have kept your testimonies. 23 Even though princes sit plotting against me, your servant will meditate on your statutes. 24 Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors.


The psalmist now writes the opposite of what he wrote in verse 1— a kind of reverse beatitude. Those who follow God’s law are blessed, but those who swerve from it are cursed. This particular word for “curse” in Hebrew car-ries the idea of being bound and, thus, helpless. They are unable to move forward, unable to know the same joy and contentment that those who


are blessed experience. These cursed ones who wander from the law are described as “insolent.” The word usually refers to pride and willfulness. They are the opposite of a humble servant seeking to know and follow the law. God’s response to these people is to “rebuke” them (i.e. to work against them) (21).

We now learn that these insolent ones are actually working against the psalmist. He pleads with God to remove the disgrace and derision he is experiencing from the insolent ones, especially since the psalmist is fol-lowing God’s word (22). The truth is, as these leaders spend time plotting against the psalmist (probably the scorn and the plotting are coming because the psalmist is keeping the law), he continues to concern himself only with God’s law (23). What God has written, he says again, is a delight to him, but he adds that he views the laws that God has given like they are his advisors. They are trusted counselors who direct him and help him to plan out his life. The insolent ones come together and rely on themselves to plot out their course, but the psalmist uses God’s law to make all his plans (24).


Imagine that God’s word functioned as your personal advisor to create a plan for your life and to come alongside you as you lived out that plan. Through-out this day or two, find a way of opening God’s word one time every hour and reading a single verse out of Proverbs 18 beginning with verse 1. Read the verse a few times and reflect on it, being open to its guidance. Do this with one verse every hour.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: protect your servants from all who show scorn and contempt; through your Holy Word, guide each step we take that our way of life might show forth Your goodness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 7Wednesday, February 29, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:25-28

25 My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word! 26 When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes! 27 Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works. 28 My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!


After describing the external troubles he is suffering, this next section delves into the internal struggle of the psalmist. He cries out that his soul is stuck to the dust. Dust is a poetic way of describing death. Spiritually and men-tally he has fallen over and cannot lift himself up out of the dust. He feels as though he is dying inside. Only God can give him life again, according to


the promise of God’s word (25).

The psalmist then tells of how he recounted the way he had been living and observing God’s law and the Lord responded to him. As he experienced the God of the universe answering him, all he could do was to blurt out, “Teach me your statues!” (26). The encounter with God left him simply wanting more. He pleads not just for God to open his eyes to the wonders of the law, but to cause the psalmist to really comprehend the way of life set out in God’s word. In turn, he will meditate on all that God has done and spoken. The Hebrew word here for meditate is not limited to silent reflection, but also includes verbal proclamation. He will rehearse in his mind and say out loud all that God has done and said (27).

Though in his past God has heard and responded, that is not the present ex-perience of the psalmist. He now returns to where he began in this section. The grief he is going through at this moment is causing his soul to weep. He pictures his soul like a block of ice slowly melting away. He begs God to lit-erally stand him up. Where verse 25 described him stuck in the dirt, verse 28 looks for God to raise him up, once again because of the promises of God’s word (28).


Take time right now to be completely open and honest with God about your life, just as the psalmist does here. Tell Him your frustrations and your joys. Let Him know if you are angry or desperate or weak. Then rest before Him.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: hear the cries of your people and in your infinite love and grace, give us understanding and strength; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 8Thursday, March 1, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:29-32

29 Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law! 30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me. 31 I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame! 32 I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart!


No matter the intentions or commitment of the psalmist, he knows that he can easily turn to a way of living that is deceptive and denies the truth of God’s word unless God intervenes. He appeals to God to remove that way from his life and grant him unmerited divine favor by teaching him the law that leads to a truthful way of living (29). He proclaims the decision he has


made to walk the path of faithfulness to God’s word. The translation then says, “I set your rules before me.” It is better to understand the psalmist say-ing: “To your rules, I am committed!” Even as he implores God to keep him from false living, he enthusiastically professes that he has given himself over to God’s rules and God’s way of life (30). In verse 25, his soul was sticking to the dust, but, in verse 31, he uses that same verb to say that he is sticking himself to the words given by God. He cries out to Yahweh that he is cling-ing to these words; therefore, he pleads that he not be put to shame (31). In the excitement of this moment, he uses a powerful, but very unusual, verb. Often the Bible speaks of walking in the ways of God, but here it is run-ning! He is wholeheartedly charging down the path of righteous living with a zealot’s passion, but only as God enlarges his heart to do so. This is a way of saying that God sovereignly opened up the soul and will of the psalmist so that he might receive and embrace the glorious words of God (32).


Sin is ugly and deeply rooted in us, yet God, in His grace, often lovingly reveals Himself and opens up our hearts to embrace Him. Consider the ways that God has shown Himself to you throughout your life. It may have been through a difficult time, through a friend, in a time of prayer, on a walk through nature, etc. What kinds of responses did you have to God during these moments?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: guard our hearts against the hardness of sin, sovereignly open our eyes to see your wonderful work in the world and intensify our passion to love and serve you as fully devoted disciples; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 9Friday, March 2, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:33-36

33 Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end. 34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart. 35 Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. 36 Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!


In these verses, the psalmist sets himself to prayer. Each verse begins with an impassioned request for Yahweh’s help. He asks Yahweh to “teach” him, to “give” to him, to “lead” him and to “incline” his heart. With each request, he also offers a reason for Yahweh to answer him.


First, he appeals to God, as the author of the law, to be his teacher. He wants to know the true lifestyle prescribed by God’s word, so he goes to the source. The reason he wants this is so that he might continually live his life in harmony with the law (33). Second, he calls on God to grant him a deeper and fuller comprehension of the significance of the law so that his obedience is not just a mechanical following, but engages every part of his being (34). Third, he implores the Lord to personally be his guide as he daily walks this path set out by the law. He not only wants to have the correct knowledge and a full understanding, but during his day-to-day walk, he asks that God regularly steer him so that he will not step off the path. Why? Not for reward or fear of punishment, but because he finds so much pleasure and joy in living a lifestyle according to God’s word (35). Fourth, knowing the depth of his own sin, he pleads with God to turn his mind and will away from the selfishness that so easily pushes him off the path and to set them firmly on road of that follows God’s word (36).


If you made a list of reasons why you follow God, what would the top few reasons be? Spend some time thinking honestly about this.

How do your reasons compare to what the psalmist writes in these verses? What do you wish were your driving reasons for wanting to walk in the ways of God? Why?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: lead us on the path of right living, continu-ally protecting us from the deep rooted selfishness of sin and help us find delight in living according to your word that our every motive would be pure and upright bringing joy to your heart; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 10Saturday, March 3, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:37-40

37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways. 38 Confirm to your servant your promise, that you may be feared. 39 Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good. 40 Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life!


The psalmist continues the prayer that began in verses 33-36. These four verses are bookended by a plea to give the psalmist life (37, 40). Consider-ing the hardships he has described so far in the psalm and the way his soul is “clinging to the dust” and “melting away from sorrow,” it is best to under-stand him asking God to revive him, to give him the fullness of life that has


been lost through the trials of life.

He begins by asking God to make his eyes look away from the empty promis-es of wealth and fame this world offers. It is language reminiscent of Ecclesi-astes. His desire is for God to revive him from everything he is experiencing not through worldly gain, which is empty, but through the way of life laid out in God’s word (37). He continues along this same line of thought by imploring God to respond to his request which will demonstrate that the promises of God’s word are real. Then those who see the revived life of the psalmist will begin to show the reverence to God that He is due (38). His last petition begins just like the first. He pleaded with God to make his eyes turn from something. Now he begs God to turn away the disgrace he wrote about back in verse 22, a disgrace that is causing him great anxiety about the future. The reason the psalmist offers for God answering this request is that God’s rules are good and following them should not result in disgrace (39). That finally leads him to proclaim how much he desires to have God’s word in his life! He returns to his plea for God to revive him. This time he con-nects the appeal to revive him to God’s faithfulness, which is another way of understanding the Hebrew word translated here as “righteousness.” He throws himself on the mercy of God’s faithfulness (40).


Think on the ways that wealth and material possessions control you. What gives them this power? In what ways is your life ordered to make you a slave to money? In what ways is your life ordered to make you a slave to God? (Matt 6:24)

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: turn our hearts and minds from worthless things and fulfill the promises of your word that our lives might be a living testimony to your power and faithfulness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 11Monday, March 5, 2012

I will arise and go to my father and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.” Luke 15:18-19

Confession

Make our hearts clean, O God and renew a right spirit within us.Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbor, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

Psalm 119:41-44

41 Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD, your salvation according to your promise; 42 then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me, for I trust in your word. 43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for my hope is in your rules. 44 I will keep your law continually, for ever and ever,


The Hebrew term “word,” which is used in each of the first three verses is very important in this section of the psalm. The first plea rests in what God has said in His word (translated as “promise” above). The psalmist longs for Yahweh to intervene in his life, but specifically that this intervention would flow directly out of God’s loyal love. He asks God to deliver him from his


trial, just as He has promised in His word (41). When that happens, the psalmist will then have a “word” (or an “answer”) for the one who is treating him with contempt because he relies on God’s word (42). Since he places his confidence in God’s word, he petitions God to come through with His promises so that the words the psalmist speaks to those who taunt him will not be false. He gives a further reason for this: he is waiting for God’s justice to come (43). The psalmist ends this section with a bold proclamation that he will run his life according to God’s law consistently, all the time, for the rest of his life! (44). That is the confidence he has in the lifestyle that God has laid out in his word and demonstrates the profound faith he possesses that God really will follow through with his promises no matter what the situation might look like.


In a very fast-paced world, patience is difficult. The psalmist firmly believes that his only hope in every situation is God; yet, God does not always show up in a timely fashion as the psalmist desires. He is often forced to wait on God, which is precisely what the psalmist does–no matter how long it takes God to respond. We, too, must learn to wait on God. Throughout this day or the next, before every action you take (entering a store, beginning a conver-sation, going out to lunch, reading a book, etc.), slow down a few minutes and seek God. It may feel strange at first, or you may not feel anything. We must practice, though, to slow down our lives, recognize God’s sovereignty and direction in every part of our lives and walk by the Spirit. It is only through practicing these things that we will ever live the life God has called us to do while pleasing the heart of God.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: let your steadfast love come to us, grant us hope in trusting in you, patience in waiting for you and joy in resting in you so that every moment of our lives we might live in you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 12Tuesday, March 6, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:45-48

45 and I shall walk in a wide place, for I have sought your precepts. 46 I will also speak of your testimonies before kings and shall not be put to shame, 47 for I find my delight in your commandments, which I love. 48 I will lift up my hands towards your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes.


After his bold announcement to always walk in the ways of God’s law in verse 44, the psalmist now enumerates what that means. Each verse in Hebrews begins with the same conjunction that is perhaps best translated as “so,” and


it demonstrates how each verse is connected individually back to verse 44.

“So I shall walk ….” One result of his commitment is that he will walk in a wide place, a means of describing security. He will find security in his life be-cause he has set his mind to following the precepts of God (45). “So I shall speak ….” Another result is the audacity to share the great word of God with anyone, even kings, knowing that since this is God’s word, proclaiming it will never bring true humiliation (46). “So I shall delight ….” His joy and satisfaction will come about because he knows and lives according to the very way of life found in God’s word that he loves so much (47). “So I shall lift … and meditate ….” Finally, he will honor the commandments of God and open himself to the Law that he loves so much. It is high language typi-cally used to refer to praying or worshipping God, but here demonstrates the intimate connection between God and the words that God has given to his people, as well as the complete commitment the psalmist has to God’s words. Furthermore, this is not a mindless act of religious devotion, but something he has put his whole mind and will into (48).


Each of these four verses speaks about the result of the psalmist’s commitment to live in God’s ways. His faith and trust in God have made an impact. He is not the same person. In what ways has your commitment to God impacted your life? Consider the ways faith has impacted the psalmist and then make a list of the ways that your life is different because you are a follower of Jesus Christ.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and for-give the sins of all who are penitent: give to us a greater appreciation for the bountiful ways that your presence in our lives changes us, guides us, protects us and draws us into a deeper relationship with you that we might have a more sure commitment to walk in your ways and witness to your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 13Wednesday, March 7, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:49-52

49 Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope. 50 This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. 51 The insolent utterly deride me, but I do not turn away from your law. 52 When I think of your rules from of old, I take comfort, O LORD.


The psalmist asks God to pay attention to the promises He has made to those who are faithful to follow His word because it is in these promises that the psalmist has rested all his hope during hardships (49). These promises


that are given to him are his comfort when he is distressed, not only because they come from God, but because these very promises have revived him and given him new life in the past (50). The word for comfort here reflects the idea of taking a deep breath and slowly letting it out, a picture of solace. Fur-thermore, even though prideful people (those he spoke about back in verse 21) do nothing but heap scorn upon him, he will not turn away from the law of God (51). Even as he has asked God to “remember” His word, the psalm-ist now says that he “remembers” (translated above as “when I think”) God’s rules that were given long ago, rules that after so many years could easily have been forgotten, and it is in this act of remembering, of calling to mind and paying attention to, that the psalmists finds comfort (52).


Who or what do you seek comfort in? When you do not have answers, when life feels out of control, when you are hurting … where do you look for comfort? Think about the ways that God has come through for you in the past. Spend time remembering them. When you enter your time of prayer, ask the Lord to remember you. Ask him to come through for you as he has in the past. Then, make verses 49-50 your meditation throughout the day and throughout the situation you are currently going through.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: remember us O LORD during each hardship we face and let the comfort of your peace that surpasses all understanding give us hope to persevere and grace to trust in your faithfulness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:53-56

53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked, who forsake your law. 54 Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my sojourning. 55 I remember your name in the night, O LORD, and keep your law. 56 This blessing has fallen to me, that I have kept your precepts.


The passion that the psalmist has for God’s law is no more evident than in this first line where rage grabs hold of him as he witnesses rebellious people turn away from God’s law. The word for “hot indignation” literally describes


a raging fire or a hot wind (53). Unlike these rebellious people, God’s law has been like songs of joy and victory for the psalmist to sing no matter where he has dwelled or what kind of situation he has been in (54). He brings to mind not only the rules of old (52), but also the great name of God, Yahweh. He does this throughout the night, the time in the ancient world when one could not do manual labor and might have time to study, but also the period of time when it was more dangerous and there was greater anxi-ety. For the psalmist, the night is a time to set his mind on Yahweh. He also expresses his resolve that he will keep the law (55). The last verse has a dif-ficult word to translate that makes it potentially confusing. The idea behind the verse seems to be: “This is what has been happening regularly for I have observed your laws.” What he has just described in the previous verses is the way life has become for him because he has been keeping God’s law (56).


The psalmist’s commitment to God’s word is not legalistic or forced, nor mere traditionalism. He genuinely loves God’s word because he knows it is truly words given by God himself and these words give him hope, joy and life. God’s word is so wonderful to him it has become the songs that he sings. He takes time each evening to think on the Lord and the word.

In what ways do you regularly bring God’s word into your life? How might you more regularly bring God’s word into your life? Look at these verses again and see some of the ways the psalmist’s love for God’s word has impacted his life.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: establish in us a passionate zeal for your word and fervent joy in learning and following that word that we might renew our minds, know your will and please your heart; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:57-60

57 The LORD is my portion; I promise to keep your words. 58 I entreat your favour with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. 59 When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies; 60 I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments.


The psalmist begins with the intriguing claim that Yahweh is his “portion.” This word refers to an allotment of land that is assigned to a person or family as an inheritance or gift. This portion provides stability and security. The


psalmist understands that he has been chosen by Yahweh, who is his stability and security. On account of this, he vows to follow the way of life laid out in God’s word (57). Furthermore, he sets mind and will to calling upon the kind-ness of Yahweh so that God will act on his behalf, as He decreed in His word (58). Part of what has led the psalmist to devote his entire being to seeking Yahweh is the time he spent thinking and evaluating the way he has been living. This deep consideration of his life has caused him to change direc-tions and begin living in accordance with God’s word (59). This turn about is not done with any kind of reservation, compulsion or guilt. Rather, he rushes without delay to make his way of life match up with God’s word (60).


The LORD is the psalmist’s “portion,” his lot in life, his all and all. He desires God’s favor and blessing with all of his heart. Do you long for God in this same way? If not, why not?

Notice how when the psalmist took time to really think hard about his life, it caused him to more fully turn his life over to God. What are some reasons his personal reflection might have had this effect on him?

Take some time today to think on your ways and ask God to open you more fully to His way.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: graciously turn our lives toward you and incline our hearts to desire your ways that each day our longing for you might increase and lead us on the path of righteousness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

Christ Church Plano Day16 41



Confession


Psalm 119:61-64

61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me, I do not forget your law. 62 At midnight I rise to praise you, because of your righteous rules. 63 I am a companion of all who fear you, of those who keep your precepts. 64 The earth, O LORD, is full of your steadfast love; teach me your statutes!


The psalmist looks out into his culture and sees two types of people. The first are those he calls “wicked”: those who ignore God’s word, who are guilty of lifestyles that rebel against the calling of God on our lives. As he is around

Day16 Lenten Prayer Guide42

these people, their lifestyles are likes cords being wrapped around him to pull him away from God’s ways. In the midst of that struggle, he never loses sight of God’s law. Constantly he calls it to mind so that he will remain commit-ted to God (61). The Word of God is so good, right and just that he rises in the middle of night in order to offer praise and thanksgiving to God (62). The other type of person is the one who has a proper reverence for God and therefore desires to follow God’s word. The psalmist feels intimately con-nected to this type of person, even if he does not know them (63). For the psalmist, knowing and following God’s word is a bond more powerful than the distance between two strangers. The amazing loving kindness of God is so vast that it fills the entire earth and leads the psalmist to cry out for God to teach him the law. If God’s character is filled with loving kindness, then His statutes are well worth committing one’s life to following (64).


What are some of the snares in your life that threaten to pull you away from being faithful to God? What are some ways you have tried to counteract these snares? What are some reasons why it is better to be faithful to God than to give in to other ways of living?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and for-give the sins of all who are penitent: mightily act in the lives of your people according to your loyal love and, in your rich mercy, overcome all wrong desires in us that we, by your great power, might walk in faith, keeping your ways and glorifying your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen



To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. Daniel 9:9-10

Confession

Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, maker of all things, judge of all people, we acknowledge and confess our many sins, which we have committed from time to time by thought, word and deed against your divine Majesty, provoking most justly your righteous anger against us. We earnestly repent and are deeply sorry for all our wrongdoings. The memory of them grieves us and the burden of them is too great for us to bear. Have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. For your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past and grant from this time forward we may serve and please you in newness of life, to the honor and glory of your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Psalm 119:65-68

65 You have dealt well with your servant, O LORD, according to your word. 66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments. 67 Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word. 68 You are good and do good; teach me your statutes.


The psalmist begins by acknowledging how Yahweh has acted for his benefit.


God has shown great kindness to him, which is precisely what God’s word teaches will happen (65). The next line in our translation above misses the core of the psalmist’s plea. He is not asking to be taught a certain type of judgment and knowledge, but, rather, that God will help him to grasp the goodness of right discernment and wisdom. His prayer is that God help him more fully realize how beneficial it is to be able to make right judgments and to live wisely according to God’s word (66). The reason he desires this is that sometime in his past he strayed and suffered because of it. The word for “astray” describes unintentionally going off the path. Yet, even if his stray-ing was unintentional, it still caused great anxiety for him. Now that he is observing God’s word and knows how God takes care of him, he wants to en-sure as much as possible that he no longer unwittingly wanders off the path again (67). Finally, he proclaims not just that God does good to him, but the good actions of God come from the very character of God who is good. God acts toward the psalmist in a way that lines up with the core of who God is. So the psalmist pleads for God to train him in this goodness (68).


In our culture, it is easy to see discipline as a bad thing. However, notice what the psalmist says… “before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word.” Sometimes, the Lord Himself “afflicts,” corrects or disciplines us because He loves us, because we are His children (Heb 12:5-9). Have you felt corrected by the Lord lately? How do you feel about having a heavenly Father willing to discipline us? Can you rest today in His loving reproofs and thank Him for His loving guidance and direction in your life?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: keep our hearts from straying off the path of your word; teach us to embrace your discipline when we stray as that which comes from our father that we would become the holy community of faith you have called us to be; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:69-72

69 The insolent smear me with lies, but with my whole heart I keep your precepts; 70 their heart is unfeeling like fat, but I delight in your law. 71 It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. 72 The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.


Those who are arrogant and rebellious against God have figuratively plas-


tered falsehoods over the psalmist, hiding his true character. However, this distorted picture that threatens his reputation and brings suffering into his life does not turn him away from God’s law. He remains firmly committed in his mind and will to walking according to God’s word (69). Those who do things to ruin the psalmist have minds and wills that are not open to the powerful workings of God. It is as if a thick layer of fat surrounded them, keeping God’s word out. The psalmist, on the other hand, is captivated by God’s word and takes great pleasure in knowing and following it (70). The joy he has found in God’s word makes any affliction worth going through be-cause, through his suffering, he actually learned the truth about God’s word. His trouble and hardship turned out beneficial as it brought God’s ways firmly into his life (71). That law and way of life that God has spoken for the benefit of the human race and the way of living that comes directly from God himself are of more value to the psalmist than a vast amount of wealth. Money can make life better, but God’s words are life itself because they come from the one who gave us life (72).


How have past trials affected your spiritual life?

It most often seems that our single prayer during difficult times is for God to rescue us. What would you think about a prayer that instead focused on us re-maining faithful to God during our trials and growing in our faith through our trials? Consider the following verses: Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: prepare our minds, strengthen our hearts and increase our trust that we, finding our spiritual lives flourishing and be-ing drawn closer to you through every trial that comes our way, might rejoice by faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession

Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, maker of all things, judge of all people, we acknowledge and confess our many sins, which we have committed from time to time by thought, word and deed against your divine Majesty, pro-voking most justly your righteous anger against us. We earnestly repent and are deeply sorry for all our wrongdoings. The memory of them grieves us and the burden of them is too great for us to bear. Have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. For your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past and grant from this time forward we may serve and please you in newness of life, to the honor and glory of your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Psalm 119:73-76

73 Your hands have made and fashioned me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments. 74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, because I have hoped in your word. 75 I know, O LORD, that your rules are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. 76 Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant.


In this touching introduction, the psalmist recalls how God made him with His own hands and how He fashioned each part of him, preparing him for


life. The psalmist implores God, as his Maker, to give him the necessary comprehension to really know the law so that he can obey it (73). Oth-ers who believe and show true reverence for Yahweh will then look on the psalmist and be joyful with (and for) him because he waited expectantly for the promises of God in His word to be fulfilled in his life (74). He firmly believes that all Yahweh has spoken is good and right and just. This belief is so strong that, though the psalmist has no answers for why he has gone through suffering, he trusts completely that Yahweh brought this into his life for his benefit (75). Now he pleads with God to also be the answer to his problem. Rather than turn from God after being afflicted, he believes God is bringing this trouble into his life for his benefit and he now looks to God, who brought hardship, to now bring comfort through His steadfast love and commitment, as God’s word has assured him He will do (76).


When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, he began with a single word: “fa-ther.” In all his power, glory, holiness and transcendence, God is still our father. He made us. He loves us. He looks after us. No matter what the psalmist is experiencing, he looks to God with same trust that a little child looks to a parent.

Think about ways you care for your children or about ways your parents care for you. If you thought regularly about God as a loving father, would it change how you interpreted the events of your life? If you fully embraced God as a father who loved you and looked out for you, how might it affect the way you see His word and His rules?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: grant to us, through your Holy Spirit, a vi-sion of you as our father and help us to see every circumstance in our lives through your eyes that we might fully embrace all you have for us and hold on to your everlasting love; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession

Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, maker of all things, judge of all people, we acknowledge and confess our many sins, which we have committed from time to time by thought, word and deed against your divine Majesty, pro-voking most justly your righteous anger against us. We earnestly repent and are deeply sorry for all our wrongdoings. The memory of them grieves us and the burden of them is too great for us to bear. Have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. For your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past and grant from this time forward we may serve and please you in newness of life, to the honor and glory of your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Psalm 119:77-80

77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; for your law is my delight. 78 Let the insolent be put to shame, because they have wronged me with falsehood; as for me, I will meditate on your precepts. 79 Let those who fear you turn to me, that they may know your testimonies. 80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes, that I may not be put to shame!


The psalmist has just asked God to bring him relief from his trouble through


His loving kindness. Now he entreats God to look on him with favor and show intense compassion on him so that he might be not only comforted, but reinvigorated and renewed! The reason he seeks this from God is because the words that God gave to man have utterly captivated the heart and mind of the psalmist. It is not only that the psalmist asks for this as a kind of reward for faithfulness to God’s word, but, even more, he wants this mercy from God because he finds such pleasure in God’s word that he cannot imagine finding renewal from any other source (77). He then asks that the proud ones who have slandered him with lies be disgraced as their false accusations are re-vealed. The psalmist will simply keep his mind focused intently on God’s word (78). For those who have reverence for God, the psalmist now seeks to be a guide. In his life, God’s word has been fruitful even as God has been faithful. He wants others to learn the amazing beauty and power of God’s word as they witness his life with God. He will help them walk that same path by modeling a godly lifestyle and teaching them the truth of God’s word (79). Finally, he implores God to allow his heart to be whole—undivided in its commitment to following God’s ways, so he does not end up experiencing the same shame he asked God to bring on his enemies (80).


As we learn and are guided by God’s word, we have a responsibility to help others along. The psalmist invites those who also want to walk according to Scripture to turn to Him and let Him be their example and teacher. Who in your life might you be an example to or a teacher for? What fears do you have in this role? Pray about your own walk with God and about being open to God using you as a teacher and example to others.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and for-give the sins of all who are penitent: strengthen our faithfulness to your word, grow our knowledge and help us to be examples and guides for others; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:81-84

81 My soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your word. 82 My eyes long for your promise; I ask, “When will you comfort me?” 83 For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke, yet I have not forgotten your statutes. 84 How long must your servant endure? When will you judge those who persecute me?


Though his faith has been strong and he has displayed amazing hope in what


God might do to comfort him and to overcome his enemies, that day has not yet come. The psalmist says now that his soul, life and energy are languish-ing and he yearns for God to finally deliver him. He has waited for God’s word to come true, but nothing has happened yet (81). Even his eyes are worn out looking for God to fulfill his promise. In weakness and on the verge of despair, he asks God when He will finally come and bring relief (82). He describes his life as being like a wineskin hung up in a chimney— constantly feeling the heat and covered in smoke without relief. Yet, he still does not ignore or overlook God’s ways, though God seems to have overlooked him (83). He desperately longs to know when God will finally come through. How much more does the psalmist have to suffer before God will finally make good on His word and judge those who are bringing misery to him (84)?


Think back on a time in your life when you gave up and wished you hadn’t. What was the breaking point for you? How do wish things had gone differ-ently?

When do you give up on God? At what point do you take things into your own hands and leave God out of a situation? When do you take over? Is this what you want?

When you come to these times in your life, return to these four verses. In them, we see the reality of the how hard it can be waiting on God, but also we see the perseverance to do just that.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: create in us long patience and lasting endur-ance to keep our eyes firmly fixed on you as we wait through the difficulties and tribulations of life for your salvation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:85-88

85 The insolent have dug pitfalls for me; they do not live according to your law. 86 All your commandments are sure; they persecute me with falsehood; help me! 87 They have almost made an end of me on earth, but I have not forsaken your precepts. 88 In your steadfast love give me life, that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.


The psalmist describes further the hardship being brought on him by the proud


ones. The image is of digging pits and covering them with brush to hide them so that animals will fall into them and be trapped. They are coming after him like he is an animal and showing no mercy. They are not constrained in their assaults in any way because they do not live their lives according to God’s ways. So their attacks are merciless and uninhibited by morality (85). The psalmist proclaims that God’s commandments are solid and can be relied upon while the persecution of the proud is done through that which has no substance and can support nothing. Their oppression is the opposite of God’s law. Because of this, the psalmist cries out, “Help me!” (86). He has suffered so much that he does not think he can handle much more, yet he has not abandoned a godly lifestyle based upon God’s word. No matter how far it has gone, no matter how fatigued and distressed he is, no matter how silent God is being… he still walks according to God’s word (87). In an anguished plea, he asks again that, through the merciful and loyal commitment of God to his people, He will restore the psalmist so that he may continue to follow the ways of God and be a living testimony to the truth of God (88).


The psalmist’s enemies have set traps for him, persecuted him and almost ended his life through immoral ways. He knows God’s ways are sure, but right now God is not coming through. When our enemies persecute us and God seems silent, it makes our situation even worse. It is during these times espe-cially that, in faith, we must hold on to God’s ways, but even more, Jesus tells us to “love our enemies and pray for those that persecute you” (Matt 5:44). Today and throughout this next week, spend time praying for those who have hurt you, persecuted you, treated you unfairly or just made your life difficult.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: give us courage and faith to love as you have loved us in giving up your son while we were yet sinners, that having shown your love to our enemies, we might better know the depth of your love for us and our world; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

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But David’s heart struck him after he had numbered the people. And David said to the LORD, “I have sinned greatly in what I have done. But now, O LORD, please take away the iniquity of your servant, for I have done very foolishly.” 2 Samuel 24:10

Confession

Heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and against our neighbor in thought and word and deed, through negligence, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault; by what we have done and by what we have failed to do. We are truly sorry and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and grant that we may serve you in newness of life to the glory of your name. Amen.

Psalm 119:89-92

89 For ever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens. 90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations; you have established the earth and it stands fast. 91 By your appointment they stand this day, for all things are your servants. 92 If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.


The psalmist turns his attention and his faith to the awesome power of God’s word, which is his only hope. The word of Yahweh stands strong in the heavens above, with none able to bring it down or overcome it, even the troubles in his life (89). The staunch loyalty of God to every generation

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Day 23 (Day of Fasting) Lenten Prayer Guide56

likewise remains fixed as it rests in his unmovable word. This is confirmed by the earth itself, which came into existence through God’s word and, through every civilization and war and natural disaster, still remains (90). The entire universe, the heavens and the earth, they endure this very day only by the word of God because there is nothing in all existence that is not a servant of Yahweh (91). This is also the only reason the psalmist still stands through all his affliction: he relies on this powerful and unmovable word responsible for the continued existence of the universe itself. If this all-powerful word of God had not been what he turned to and found such pleasure in, he would not make it through the tribulations of life (92).


If there is a large rock somewhere near your home or work, take a few min-utes today and go out to that rock. Sit on it, or stand on it. Feel it. Think about the characteristics of strength in this rock. Some of these same char-acteristics are the way the psalmist understands the security, stability and power of God’s word. If you looked upon the word of God as you did a huge, unmovable stone, how might that impact your life? (Matt 5:18)

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: you have established forever your powerful word; grant that we, your servants, might find a secure and lasting founda-tion within your word for every decision and relationship, for every trial and tribulation and for every movement of our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:93-96

93 I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life. 94 I am yours; save me, for I have sought your precepts. 95 The wicked lie in wait to destroy me, but I consider your testimonies. 96 I have seen a limit to all perfection, but your commandment is exceedingly broad.


The psalmist declares that he will never abandon the path of godly living laid out for him in God’s word. This is because, in his past, following God’s ways saved his life. Evidence of God’s word in the world and personal experi-ence of the power of God’s word in his life have caused the psalmist to fix


himself to God’s ways (93). Not only that, but in a simple, yet profound, pro-fession, he says he belongs to God. He is the servant and God is the master. Therefore he calls on God to save him. He has done his part as the servant in constantly setting his mind on his master’s word. He now begs his master to rescue him (94). Those coming after him are just waiting for the right moment to ruin his life, but as they wait to accomplish their terrible deed, the psalmist spends his time learning and comprehending what God has said (95). He has seen that everything on earth is limited. It all has an ending, but God’s word is beyond anything on earth or of mortal man. There is no end to understanding it, to following it and to its power in the life of God’s people. We will never comprehend it all and it has the power to overcome anything (96).


Spend time today paying attention to things around you. Deliberately walk around your home looking at everything you own. Look around your office at work. Pay attention to the place you go and have lunch. Notice that every-thing breaks down. While all around you there are new things, there are also those things which are old, decaying and falling apart. Let the truth of this psalm and teaching of Scripture (especially in Ecclesiastes) penetrate your heart and mind. Nothing of this world will last.

After spending the day experiencing this truth and letting it sink in, take God’s word in your hand. This is what will last.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: open our minds and hearts to the truth that everything in this world will perish; give us understanding to know the last-ing power and guidance of your word that we might build our lives upon the sure foundation of your truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:97-100

97 Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day. 98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me. 99 I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation. 100 I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.


The psalmist appeals to God’s word because he needs it, because it has rescued him and because it comes from God Himself so it must be followed. However, we are reminded on more than one occasion that it is also the deepest desire of his heart. He follows God’s word because he wants to. He


has a deep passion and finds immense joy in God’s law. He muses on it all throughout his day (97). God’s word makes the psalmist more discerning and gives him greater understanding than those who are against him who find their wisdom in other sources. This is true because God’s word is the greatest wisdom in the world and the psalmist is always aware of this wisdom because it is at the forefront of mind, as he meditates on it constantly (98). He has a greater depth of awareness and insight than even his teachers, who have more advanced training than he, because he relies upon God’s word to give him understanding while they do not (99). He even has greater wisdom more than those who have lived and experienced more than he because he doesn’t just know what the law says; he lives it out. His understanding is not limited to an academic appreciation, but he has experienced living accord-ing to God’s word. He has not been only a student, but an apprentice, doing what he has learned (100).


What distinctions would you make between knowledge and wisdom? What makes wisdom important? Can you think of a good example of a wise person you know?

Take time to reflect on conversations or life experiences where the wisdom of God has conflicted with the wisdom of the world/culture/other religions. In what ways has God’s word prevailed against these other ways of under-standing life?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: rescue us according to your word, give to us wise and discerning hearts and increase our understanding as we walk in the way of your law; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:101-104

101 I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word. 102 I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me. 103 How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! 104 Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.


Life is a journey down a path. The psalmist is walking along a path made up of God’s word. Other paths branch off of this one to lead him into evil and misery, but he restrains his feet from taking those paths so that he might carry out the commandments of God (101). He will not allow himself to even


turn and look down those paths, but keeps his focus upon the words that God has given precisely because they came from God Himself. There can-not possibly be another path worth walking down when this one was built by our loving Creator (102). In the ancient world, the sweetest taste they knew was from honey; not just from bees, but the sweet syrup that came from figs, grapes and dates. As he speaks God’s words and meditates on them, turning them over and over in his mind, he finds the Word to be sweeter than sweet-est sweetener he knows (103). It is through the principles and command-ments of God’s word that he gains a vision for understanding the world and it causes him to detest every path that is not real, every path that leads away from the glorious way of God into that which is ultimately a fraud (104).


Here the psalmist describes keeping his ways pure in order to obey God’s Word (101). In the end, he notes that by gaining understanding (through the word) he actually hates every false way. Have you noticed that in your own life? After abstaining from sinful ways and holding fast to the things of God, have you noticed a decreased desire for sinful ways of life? Perhaps you have even felt the disgust for them that the psalmist feels. Ask the Lord not only to continue cleansing you, but also to turn your heart against rebellion and to help you forget what lies behind and press on for His glory.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: teach us to hate all false ways and to cling with great humility to your holy word that we might know its sweetness and, at the coming of our Lord, can rejoice before him as those faithful to your call; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:105-108

105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. 106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it, to keep your righteous rules. 107 I am severely afflicted; give me life, O LORD, according to your word! 108 Accept my freewill offerings of praise, O LORD, and teach me your rules.


While the psalmist has written of God’s word being the one path of righ-teousness amidst many deceitful paths through life, here the image changes. There is a single path through life, but we walk in darkness and constantly risk stumbling off the path. It is God’s word that acts like a lamp that reveals


the path in front of us so that we can stay on the path of life (105). Now that the path is revealed, the psalmist wholeheartedly longs to keep his feet on that path alone. He, therefore, willingly binds himself to God’s word as his only guide and substantiates that pledge by publicly making the vow to observe God’s laws above all else (106). Though he is staying on the path, walking by the light of God’s word, he is still intensely troubled and so again pleads with Yahweh to restore him as the word of God promises (107). The psalmist asks Yahweh to receive from him a sacrifice of praise that was not demanded or required, but given to God out of a heart of gratitude and reverence. In return, he asks again that Yahweh be his teacher. He yearns to know and follow the rules of God that will light a path through this life (108).


The psalmist asks to be given life in a time of serious affliction. There are times when we are severely afflicted – health, circumstance, relationships. We are invited to turn to God’s word in these moments as a light in the darkness, hope in distress and comfort in affliction. What are some scriptures you might hold on to during these times of deep distress and difficulties?

Finally, thinking through what God has done in you during this season of Lent and how God has made himself known, write out a prayer of praise and thanks to the Lord.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: daily shine the light of your word to guide our feet in your ways; in times of deep distress bring new life according to your word and make us so aware of you that we might continually offer you praise; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:109-112

109 I hold my life in my hand continually, but I do not forget your law. 110 The wicked have laid a snare for me, but I do not stray from your precepts. 111 Your testimonies are my heritage for ever, for they are the joy of my heart. 112 I incline my heart to perform your statutes for ever, to the end.


The psalmist’s hand is open wide and he pictures his life resting in the palm of it, without any apparent protection. It is a way of saying he is in continual danger, but this danger does not so consume his mind that he forgets about God’s law. His thinking is not dominated by his fears, but there is room amidst


the anxiety in his mind for God’s word (109). It is not only his own troubles that threaten to overwhelm him and take him away from God’s word, but those around him figuratively place traps upon the path in which he is walk-ing to force him off that path. He, however, will not wander from the path of God’s word. He will go right through those traps and stay the course trusting in God’s law (110). Inherited land was one of the most important and valuable possessions anyone could gain. Using a verb that typically refers to inheriting or possessing land, the psalmist next says that he has claimed God’s word as his permanent possession because it brings such joy to him. The word for joy often includes outward expression such as shouts or singing. God’s words cause the psalmist’s heart to sing, so he holds on to it as if it were land he inherited (111). Though he has claimed it as his prized possession, he is not the master of God’s word. He bows his own heart’s desires before the requirements of God’s word so that he will walk in God’s ways all the days of his life (112).


The mind is powerful. Scripture often speaks of setting our minds on God (Romans 12:2; Phil 2:5; 4:8; Col 3:2). What the psalmist has learned and other scriptures attest to is that our greatest weapon against snares, fears and anxiety is not to try and fight these things and make them go away or to try and ignore them, but rather to focus on the things of God. The psalm-ist might say to stay on the path and fix our eyes on God’s word rather than on those things that are causing us angst and threatening to overwhelm us. Practice this approach of turning your mind to the things of God when the concerns and trials of life begin to overcome you. Pray and set on your mind on the truths of God’s word.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: give us such a heart for your scripture that it becomes our joy and focus to rescue us from the worries and fears of this life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen



Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin. Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord GOD; so turn and live.” Ezekiel 18:30-32

Confession

Almighty and most merciful Father, we are thankful that your mercy is higher than the heavens, wider than our wanderings, deeper than all our sin. Forgive our careless attitudes toward your purposes, our refusal to relieve the suffering of others, our envy of those who have more than we have, our ob-session with creating a life of constant pleasure, our indifference to the trea-sures of heaven, our neglect of your wise and gracious law. Help us to change our way of life so that we may desire what is good, love what you love and do what you command, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Psalm 119:113-116

113 I hate the double-minded, but I love your law. 114 You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word. 115 Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God. 116 Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live, and let me not be put to shame in my hope!


The psalmist openly and unashamedly detests those who have divided


loyalties, who are hypocritical in their commitments. On the other hand, he passionately adores the word of God. His own loyalty lies squarely with God’s way of life laid out in God’s words (113). When he is in need or in danger, he retreats to God who will keep him safe from the trouble, who will protect him from danger. In times of trouble, he waits upon God to work because his one hope is in God’s promises found in God’s word (114). As he walks the path of God’s commandments, those who are double-minded and who bring trouble on others threaten to knock him off the path. For the first time in the psalm, he speaks directly to them and commands them to move away from him, to stop blocking the path of life laid out for him to walk that is in accordance with God’s word. His longing is to keep God’s word, but they endanger that hope by their presence (115). As he leans on God and places all his faith in what God has spoken, he prays that God will respond by keeping him strong. He begs God to come through for him so he will not be humiliated (116).


Do you find hope in the things that God has decreed and promised in His word? Why or why not? In what ways are you tempted away from God’s ways by others who choose to ignore them?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: turn our hearts to see the truth of Your word, that we, trusting in its relevance to our lives, may have hope in Your faith-fulness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:117-120

117 Hold me up, that I may be safe and have regard for your statutes continually! 118 You spurn all who go astray from your statutes, for their cunning is in vain. 119 All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross, therefore I love your testimonies. 120 My flesh trembles for fear of you, and I am afraid of your judgements.


The psalmist asks God to come alongside him and sustain him so that he finds


rescue and is able to remain standing amidst hardship. Ultimately he seeks this so that he is able to continue his study and meditation and observance of the law. Being strengthened and rescued is not about just avoiding pain, but about continuing to have the ability to know and obey God’s word (117). In the past, God turned away those who intentionally turned from his way of life. God did this because such people are full of falsehood. They deny the truth of God by their lives (118). These people have been like dross, the impure part of metal burned away because it has no place in the final product. Likewise, those who are deceitful and consciously turn from the good in God’s word are not used by God, but are left out of God’s good plan for his people. The psalmist does not want this fate, so he constantly seeks to follow God’s word (119). Not only does the psalmist hold God in complete awe, but he also fears the Almighty who does not take lightly those who spurn Him and His law. The flesh of the psalmist trembles as he thinks on the awesome power of God. He knows a healthy fear. He knows, as he has said, that he is not always faithful, and God will always know when the psalmist is unfaithful. God will always render the right and just judgment. In his struggle to follow God, the psalmist also fears his own rebellion and God’s just actions should the psalmist turn away (120).


Sometimes we lose a sense of God’s almighty transcendence and reduce Him to a grandfatherly figure or a good buddy. It can be easy to overlook that God is cre-ator and judge, that He hates sin and that everyone will be accountable to Him. It can be easy to look lightly on sin and forget the price paid in order to provide forgiveness for that sin. What ways do these descriptions fit you? Do you ever know the trembling the psalmist felt before the almighty God of the universe?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and for-give the sins of all who are penitent: raise our thoughts of your holiness and power; keep us from looking lightly upon our sins and treating you without the honor due your great name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:121-124

121 I have done what is just and right; do not leave me to my oppressors. 122 Give your servant a pledge of good; let not the insolent oppress me. 123 My eyes long for your salvation and for the fulfilment of your righteous promise. 124 Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love, and teach me your statutes.


The psalmist’s actions can regularly be characterized as moral, honorable and


fair when they are compared to God’s laws. He therefore cries out to God not to abandon him to those who live lives abusing and repressing others (121). He asks God to give him a guarantee, a deposit that demonstrates that God is still going to act for the benefit of the psalmist. He desires that God not give up on him, but instead intervene and bring an end to the prideful injustice being brought on him (122). He knows there is no where else to turn, so even though his eyes are figuratively bloodshot from waiting on the Lord to come through, he will not give up. He’s firmly fixed his sight on God in order to wait for God to carry out some kind of deliverance that He promised in His word (123). The psalmist rests his plea ultimately not in his own faithfulness, but in the character of God. He calls out for God to simply respond in the line with his own loving and loyal nature. Yet, even as he cries out for God to rescue him, his devotion to God through the Law is evident in his final words that God continue to train him in His ways (124).


There is a standard of measure, a plumb line of God’s law, by which one’s ac-tions can be judged. As you examine your life over this Lenten season, how have your actions been in line or out of line with God’s law? Give thanks to God for his grace and ask for his help in doing what is just and right.

How does your life daily reflect God’s salvation? What are the places in your life where you need God’s deliverance? Offer up a prayer to the God of salva-tion based on your responses.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: help us to do what is just and right and give us tangible assurance of your salvation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:125-128

125 I am your servant; give me understanding, that I may know your testimonies! 126 It is time for the LORD to act, for your law has been broken. 127 Therefore I love your commandments above gold, above fine gold. 128 Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right; I hate every false way.


The psalmist begins with a statement of how he understands his relationship


to God. The psalmist views himself as a slave, a manual laborer before God. He relies upon God for everything. He is not in a place of making demands, but, rather, in a place of serving God’s will. Since he is a subject of God, he prays for better insight into God’s word so that he would be able to truly understand how to live. He can read the words, but he desires supernatural assistance to more fully grasp their significance in his life (125). On the other hand, those around him have violated what God has given to man. They refused to obey the very words that God has spoken. It is time now for God to respond. No one should be allowed to simply ignore God’s decrees and get away with it (126). The psalmist knows that God must eventually act against those breaking His law. However, his motivation for following God’s ways is not just so he will not be punished. It is more than that for the psalmist. He actually adores God’s law. His enthusiasm for it and his dedica-tion to it are greater than even how he feels about riches (127). These are not empty words either. He sets his mind every day to follow God’s precepts. He abhors actions that are against what God has decreed because his passion and zeal for what God has spoken overwhelm him (128).


What would make you more ready and willing to serve God’s purposes in all you do? Are there ways that your life might be different if you consciously thought of yourself as a servant of God?

Spend time meditating on the “rightness” of God’s revealed will in scripture. How might that affect your actions?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Give us deeper discernment into Your char-acter, that we, perceiving Your love and righteousness, may find true joy in following Your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:129-132

129 Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them. 130 The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. 131 I open my mouth and pant, because I long for your commandments. 132 Turn to me and be gracious to me, as is your way with those who love your name.


As the psalmist looks upon the word of God, he describes it using terminology


that speaks of the great miracles God has performed for his people, such as the parting of the Red Sea. For the psalmist, God’s word is that kind of powerful and supernatural miracle. It impacts him so profoundly, he writes of his soul (i.e. his entire being) observing what God has spoken (129). When God’s words are read, it is like standing outside in the dark when suddenly a door is opened and light cascades out upon a person, allowing them to see. Knowing God’s words gives wisdom to those who are naïve, who are inexperienced, so that they can live life differently (130). The psalmist is so moved by God’s word that he figu-ratively opens his mouth and pants, a way of describing a deep seated need that overcomes him (131). He then pleads with God to turn to him, to be present with him and grant him favor. The psalmist writes that this is how God typi-cally responds to those who follow Him and give their hearts over to Him (132).


The dedication of the psalmist to God’s word is profound. It impacts him like the parting of the Red Sea did for the Israelites! It is the only source of light in darkness to lead the way! To the depth of his being, he longs for God’s word! Yet that impact and that kind of love came about not only because he understands that these are the actual words of God, but also because God used his word so powerfully in the life of the psalmist. There is a supernatural component to his love for God’s word. What are some ways God has used his word in your life? Make a list. Use that list as encouragement, but also do as the psalmist does in the final verse: ask God to turn and be gracious and use the scripture more in your life so that you might experience the power of God’s gracious word.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: let us experience the power and beauty of your word that we may have an intense longing to know and depend on your scripture; stir up in us profound excitement and sincere love for your pre-cious word; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen




Confession


Psalm 119:133-136

133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. 134 Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep your precepts. 135 Make your face shine upon your servant, and teach me your statutes. 136 My eyes shed streams of tears, because people do not keep your law.


The psalmist fears that he will stumble and fall as he tries to live out God’s


ways. So, he asks God to step in and establish him. The psalmist understands that rebellion is waiting to overtake him. He knows that sin regularly threat-ens to overpower his desire to follow God. He begs God to be the power behind his conviction, so that he might overcome sin and remain committed to God (133). It is not just sin that endangers his walk on God’s path of life, but the wickedness and trouble brought on him by others. He pleads with God to set him free from this like a slave is set free from his master. With his free-dom, the psalmist longs not to escape, but to use his liberty to obey God (134). Then, in a gentle request, he asks that God might smile down upon him and train him to follow (135). He aches for God’s ways so much that as he watches people turn from God and violate all that God has graciously given to people, it brings him to tears. His pain is not just about himself and his own troubles. He hurts when he witnesses people abandoning God’s word (136).


Sin is deceitful and powerful. Though we have times of successfully following the Lord and growing in our faith, sin still lurks waiting for the opportune moment to strike. What sins do you struggle with the most? How have these sins turned you from God? How have these sins hurt those you love? What good was brought about because of these sins? In what ways might regular time in God’s word and prayer work to keep you faithful to God?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: strengthen us against the powerful urges of our sinful natures; drive far from us every evil thought; purify our minds of all immoral thinking; and let your light shine upon us that we would continue on the path of holy living in accordance with your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 35Monday, April 2, 2012

But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace and with his wounds we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:5-6

Confession

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin! For I know my transgressions and my sin is ever before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment … Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a right spirit within me. Amen (Psalm 51:1-4; 9-10)

Psalm 119:137-140

137 Righteous are you, O LORD, and right are your rules. 138 You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness and in all faithfulness. 139 My zeal consumes me, because my foes forget your words. 140 Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it.


The psalmist declares that Yahweh is just. His character is one of moral


goodness and fairness. When God makes judgments, these verdicts He de-clares are in line with His character so that they too are good and fair (137). Therefore, the law He laid out for his people, if followed, would produce a just and good life. They are rules that reliably produce a righteous life when followed (138). The psalmist’s passion for these wonderful words of God that produce a holy life is so intense and great that it consumes him. He cannot stand when people ignore what God has given (139). He not only trusts that God’s word is genuine and dependable, but he knows this from his own ex-perience. In fact, the word of God has been tried and found faithful through multiple generations. Therefore, because of its trustworthiness, the psalmist loves God’s words (140).


Over the next few days, talk with at least three people about their experi-ence with God being faithful to them. Ask each person to recount a time when they depended upon God and the way in which God showed himself faithful. Think about what you can gain as you hear these accounts.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and for-give the sins of all who are penitent: grant that we who know your unfailing faithfulness and witness your perfect righteousness might, with sure confi-dence, entrust all our lives to your plan and purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 36Tuesday, April 3, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:141-144

141 I am small and despised, yet I do not forget your precepts. 142 Your righteousness is righteous for ever, and your law is true. 143 Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight. 144 Your testimonies are righteous for ever; give me understanding that I may live.


The psalmist reveals a detail about his life as this section opens that may be


some of the cause of the ridicule and hardship he has suffered. He is small, a word that likely refers to being young or insignificant in the society. This brings scorn upon him that, if he would give up trying to live according to God’s word, he might overcome. He will not, however, abandon the way of life set out by God no matter the cost (141). Part of the reason for this is that God’s right and just character will always be right and just. Forever, God will not change, so that his law will forever remain true and reliable (142). Distress and hardship have tracked him down and forcefully entered his life, though he has sought to follow God’s righteous path. Yet, this does not frighten him. God’s ways are still his joy (143). Like God himself, so too are God’s commandments forever right and just. This will never change. There will never be a time when God’s rules are not right and just. Therefore, the psalmist can pour his whole self into seeking a deeper understanding of God’s word. He pleads for this from God so that he might know the kind of life they offer (144).


In what ways might feelings of personal inadequacy or the rejections of oth-ers have caused you to neglect or doubt God’s wise precepts? What about difficult circumstances?

Consider again the eternal truth and rightness of God’s word, as a reflection of His perfect and eternal character.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Allow us to attend to Your precepts and decrees and not our own insufficiencies or trouble, that we may be guided to actions that reveal Your love and righteousness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 37Wednesday, April 4, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:145-148

145 With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O LORD! I will keep your statutes. 146 I call to you; save me, that I may observe your testimonies. 147 I rise before dawn and cry for help; I hope in your words. 148 My eyes are awake before the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promise.


The commitment and passion of the psalmist becomes even more evident in


this section. With his entire mind, heart and emotion he cries out to Yah-weh. He shouts for Yahweh to respond to him. He declares that he will fol-low the rules God has given (145). He shouts again for God to rescue him. That is the only way he can continue to keep obeying God (146). It means so much that he rises even before the sun comes up and yells for God to intervene. He believes that his only chance lays in God making good on His word. That is the hope the psalmist constantly holds on to (147). He wakes up not just before the sunrise, but even earlier, before the last watch of the night is done. He rises so that he can think on God’s word (148).


The relationship that the psalmist has with God is holistic. It involves his heart, his mind, his emotions … he cries out to God, he sings to God, he speaks to God … he seeks God in the morning, in the evening, throughout his day … and when times are tough, he turns every bit of his strength and life to God. There are no compartments in his life, no separation of his faith and other parts of his life.

In what ways is your faith holistic? In what ways is it compartmentalized? How would your life be different if your faith fully engaged every aspect of who you are? How might you begin to bring your faith and your relationship with God to bear on every part of your life?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: place yourself more fully into every aspect of who we are; break down the harmful compartments within our lives that keep us separated from your complete dominion; bring to bear your Holy Spirit into all areas of our existence so that through a holistic faith we would be disciples living out our faith with integrity and inviting you to rule and govern over all we are through your inexhaustible love and grace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 38Thursday, April 5, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:149-152

149 Hear my voice according to your steadfast love; O LORD, according to your justice give me life. 150 They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose; they are far from your law. 151 But you are near, O LORD, and all your commandments are true. 152 Long have I known from your testimonies that you have founded them for ever.


Having described the various ways he has tried to get God’s attention, the


psalmist simply asks God to listen to him now. He bases his request upon one thing: God’s own loyal commitment to His servant. Then he asks Yahweh to renew him and give him back his strength he has lost in his long battle with those who are against him. This request is not based upon his “justice” as we read above, but rather according to the “rules” He has given to man that the psalmist regularly follows (149). He seeks this because the ones who are scheming against him in order to bring trouble in his life are close to executing their plan. They are “near.” However, these same people are very “far” from God’s way of life (150). On the other hand, God is “near” to the psalmist. Yahweh is ready to act on behalf of the psalmist. And we know that the plans of those who are far from God’s way of life will not stand because the only reli-able way of living is in accordance with God’s word, which is always depend-able (151). Not only does the psalmist rise early to meditate on God’s ways, but he has spent his life from early on as a young man studying and learning the word of God. This is the best path he could have taken because while everything in this world will fade and fail, God’s word will stand forever (152).


When was a time in your life when God felt far away? During this period of time, in what ways did you still trust God? In what ways did you give up on Him?

How do you respond when you see those who do not know God or those who regularly bring trouble on others prospering? How does that make you feel about God? Are you able to still look to Him and trust Him during these times?

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: draw near to us O LORD; protect us from those who would do us harm; make us steadfast in our commitment to you even when it feels like you are distant from us, all that we may continue to trust in you and magnify your name in every circumstance; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

Christ Church Plano Day 39, Good Friday (Day of Fasting) 87

Lent: Day 39Good Friday - April 6, 2012


Confession


Psalm 119:169-172

169 Let my cry come before you, O Lord; give me understanding according to your word! 170 Let my plea come before you; deliver me according to your word. 171 My lips will pour forth praise, for you teach me your statutes. 172 My tongue will sing of your word, for all your commandments are right.


As the psalm nears its end, six of the last eight lines are petitions. The final

Day ofFasting

Day 39, Good Friday (Day of Fasting) Lenten Prayer Guide88

eight verses read like a sustained plea to God (though this is hidden in verses 171 and 172 in the above translation). First he asks that his “cry” be heard by Yahweh. The word emphasizes sound more than content. It is a ringing cry that pierces the air and displays the intense longing the psalmist has for Yahweh to listen to him. What he desires from Yahweh is to truly grasp the depth, meaning and purpose of God’s amazing word, which he cannot do left alone (169). The second petition is for God to show unmerited favor and act compassionately toward the psalmist. The rescue the psalmist seeks is not a demand he has come up with and tried to force on God, but is what God’s word says will happen. He seeks liberation from his trouble and persecution based upon God’s promises to him (170). The third thing he seeks is that genuine thanksgiving would bubble up from his lips and overflow. This praise is based upon God’s gracious act of teaching the psalmist His word (171). The forth thing he asks is that the word of God that he is being taught and building his life upon would also be the song he sings. He knows that every-thing God has spoken is right and good. He wants it to be the song he sings because it is the song of his heart (172).


This season has been marching steadily onward to this day: Good Friday. Throughout the psalm we have approached scripture and our own lives and faith from many different angles. Today our focus is on one thing: The Lamb of God led to slaughter. He spent his life crying out to God (Heb 5:7), much as the psalmist does here. In the end, he would be rejected, would suffer and would die a shameful, horrible death. Yet, in that act, life would be forever changed and death would be forever defeated. As you fast this day, go do the stations of the cross and spend this day reflecting on the final day of Jesus’ life.

Prayer


Closing Collect

Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed and given into the hands if sinners and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen


Lent: Day 40Saturday, April 7, 2012

And Joseph bought a linen shroud and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. Mark 15:46

Confession


Psalm 119:173-176

173 Let your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts. 174 I long for your salvation, O Lord, and your law is my delight. 175 Let my soul live and praise you, and let your rules help me. 176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant, for I do not forget your commandments.


These last four verses open with the fifth request. God’s hand in the scripture


refers to God’s acting in history, directing life and assaulting his enemies. He asks God to be poised to act on his behalf because the psalmist has chosen to fashion his life in accordance with God’s word (173). The next verse is the first one that is not a request. He declares his yearning for Yahweh to redeem him from everything he has been describing and living through in this psalm. He also reminds Yahweh that he finds true pleasure and deep joy in the law that God has given (174). The sixth petition appeals to God to allow him to survive his ordeal so that he might continue to give God the honor he deserves. He also asks God to use the word He has spoken to help the psalmist find life through his suffering (175).

The last line is unlike anything so far. It has three lines instead of two. In it the psalmist reveals something of himself. He has wandered from the path. The word refers not to intentional rebellion, but to becoming lost. He has been like a sheep who has wandered off, and, like a sheep, he cannot rescue himself. He cannot find himself. He cannot help himself. He is totally de-pendent upon God coming to find him. So he cries out to God: “Come and find your servant!” Though the psalmist has wandered from the path and helplessly lost, he still holds tightly to God’s word (176).


A day of silence. Jesus is in the tomb. It was over. They had nothing left do, nothing left to give. The three years the disciples had spent with Jesus were a failure. The scripture is silent about this day. On this Sabbath day, each dis-ciple, each of the women, every one who had believed Jesus was the chosen one, they each had the entire day to feel the loss and to experience the pain. They, like us, were sheep that had gone astray who needed a savior, but he was in the tomb. They, like us, needed God to seek them, but He was buried. It was the darkest Sabbath in human history. Jesus lay dead in a tomb and with him, the hope of all humanity.

Let the weight of this day sit in your mind. Rest today. Let this be a solemn day. Let the full weight of your sin be present. Let your total need of God hang fully in your heart and mind. Let silence be a part of your day. Reflect over this season of Lent. What has God taught you? What has happened to your relationship with him? Let this day be a final day of preparation for the greatest moment of human history.

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