Reflection: The key to understanding this Psalm is in the first word - ‘happy’. The Psalm begins, ‘Happy are those who…’.   But what is it that makes us happy?  Many people have a very materialistic view of happiness.  They may think of it in terms of what they earn or own.  Some will think of it in terms of consumer experiences such as holidays.  In fairness most will acknowledge that happiness is not defined purely by material things and they will quite rightly talk about family, friends, wider community and even the environment in which they live as well.  However, most people will look at you very strangely if you suggest that, ‘meditating day and night on the law of the Lord’, is the best path to follow for a life of happiness.

The Law or Torah came to be associated with the first five books of the bible and were considered to be God’s perfect gift to his people.  Centuries later Jesus was asked what he thought was the most important part of the Law or Torah and he summarised it as follows:

‘“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.”  This is the greatest and first commandment.  And a second is like it:  “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.”  On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’

At last we begin to understand what the Psalmist is going on about and where the root of happiness lies. Obedience to God’s law is not a restrictive code designed to limit human freedom.  It is about turning outwards in friendship and peace towards our neighbours and learning to love others as we love ourselves. Happiness is about love of God and love of others.  This is what God’s law teaches us to do and this is where living in the presence of God ultimately leads.  May our happiness rest in God our creator and source of life.

Prayers: Intercessions:  God of Love, in the news we see buildings destroyed and people killed and injured.  We feel helpless and yet we know that the world is yours.  Bring peace to lands that are being destroyed by war.  Give hope to those who live in fear.  May the leaders of the nations work together for the common Good so that all your children may live in safety and peace.  We pray for your Church throughout the world.  May those who worship you be people of prayer, and create loving communities where all are welcomed.  We pray for those who are sick in mind, body and spirit.  May they seek healing, strength and comfort from you.  And may we be generous in loving others as you love us.  In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 

Amen.

Our Father…

Hymn:  StF 504, H&P 739 “May the mind of Christ my Saviour”  

Blessing: 

Help us to live lives worthy of you.  May we see people and places this week where we can pass on all you have given us.  And may the blessing of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, be with us always. 

Amen.