A few weeks ago, the Reverend Becky Withington preached at New Pilgrims UCC in Anacortes on the book of Psalms. We looked at psalms of lament (in this case, Psalm 10) and psalms of praise (Psalm 103). At the end of the sermon, we joined in writing two psalms, each person adding to the psalm. There was a lot to lament. People need to give voice to their fears and grief. But there was also a lot to praise. Had we more time, the list would have been longer.
Thanksgiving isn't just a time to gather with family and friends for turkey and candied yams. It is also a time to give thanks. This year, as you sit down to your yearly feast, invite your guests to join you in writing your own psalm of praise and gratitude.
Learn more about the book of Psalms:
On the book of Psalms : exploring the prayers of ancient Israel / Sarna, Nahum M. 223.206 SAR
Psalms / Mays, James Luther. 223.207 MAY
Sing a new song : a book of Psalms / J 223.209505 LET
Spirituality of the Psalms / Brueggemann, Walter. 223 BRU
Trauma and grace : theology in a ruptured world / Jones, Serene, 234 JON
Words to God's music : a new book of Psalms / 223.205209 WIE
Psalms of New Pilgrims United Church of Christ:
Psalm 1
A psalm of lament
Our hearts are heavy, O God
The pandemic has taken so much from us
We can’t go anyplace
We can’t read joy or sorrow on people’s faces
Disinformation and misinformation have torn our country apart
We can’t hug friends and family
Protect us from exposure and illness
Spread the vaccine far and wide
Give us hope for a future without these restrictions
Help us adapt to a new reality
Educate the uneducable
For you are our refuge
Your steadfast love endures forever.
Psalm 2
A psalm of praise
Let us celebrate the gifts of Divine Love:
This beautiful world
Friends and family
Science
Vaccines
Four-footers
Music and poetry that lift our spirits
Community
Beautiful fall colors and majestic trees
That’s why we treasure our friendship with you.