God is good to one and all; everything he does is suffused with grace. Creation and creatures applaud you, God; your holy people bless you. They talk about the glories of your rule, they exclaim over your splendor, Letting the world know of your power for good, the lavish splendor of your kingdom. Your kingdom is a kingdom eternal; you never get voted out of office. God always does what he says, and is gracious in everything he does. God gives a hand to those down on their luck, gives a fresh start to those ready to quit. All eyes are on you, expectant; you give them their meals on time. Generous to a fault,    you lavish your favor on all creatures. Everything God does is right-the trademark on all his works is love. (Psalm 145:9-17, The Message)

When I first read Psalm 145, many of the words or phrases seemed to be familiar to me from other Psalms or prayers. Then I read this passage in the Message version and saw this prayer in a new light. Some of the things that struck me in this reading...

"Everything God does is suffused with grace." Suffused is not a word I use very often, maybe never. It means to gradually spread through. What would it look like for you to experience God's grace as being gradually spread through your life, rather than just at times when we needed it the most in large doses? I had to sit with that thought for a moment. God's grace in our lives is spread throughout each aspect of our being, day by day, moment by moment. What a gift!

"Your kingdom is a kingdom eternal; you never get voted out of office." On a day when many are voting or have voted, this is a helpful reminder to me about God's kingdom that surpasses anything we can imagine in this earthly life.

"God always does what he says, and is gracious in everything he does." What would it look like for us to live in such a way that we are gracious in everything that we do? What a way to share God's love in the world through our daily choices and actions.

"The trademark on all his works is love." How can we share God with others leaving this trademark of love with them?

Maybe some of the other phrases in this section of Psalm 145 took on a new meaning for you by reading it in the Message version. I hope that you find a few moments to let it sink in how much love God has for you, embrace that gift and let it gradually spread through each aspect of your life.

Our Chapel is open today until 6:00 p.m. for anyone that would like to pray.

Prayer for Today

Gracious God, open our eyes, ears, hearts, and minds to experience your grace and love this day. In Christ's Name, Amen.