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60 Days of Prayer

Reflections based on
the Psalms of Ascent
in preparation for the
2015 Annual Gathering
of the American Baptist Churches
of Vermont & New Hampshire

April 24 - Psalm 128

4/19/2015

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Picture
Photo ©2015 Esther Martindale
(V. 1) Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways!

Is there an implied 'and' between the two phrases? Or an implied 'or'? It is an implied continuum. How can I fear the Lord and not walk in His ways? Impossible to be a God-fearer and not a Kingdom walker. Or vice versa! Is my life in perfect harmony with the Kingdom of God? What beautiful music when it is. And how pain-fully screeching when it is not.

(Vv. 2-4) You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD.

The oil of gladness seeps, permeates, covers and penetrates every aspect of the life of a God-fearer. An aroma that soothes and calms the environment; an expression of Shalom. Against such things there is no law (Galatians 5:23).

(Vv. 5-6a)The LORD bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life! May you see your children's children!

Yes, it is a blessing to see and enjoy my grandchildren, but the greater blessing will be when I know they are walking with You. Bring them into Your Kingdom, Lord.

(V. 6b) Peace be upon Israel!
Shalom, that very essence of Kingdom life, be the hallmark of Your people. May Your Church live to spread the message of love, grace, mercy and transformation to all peoples, nations and tribes.

- John Nunnikhoven, 2015 © Voices Together, a daily devotional published
by the Fellowship of Ailbe through www.ailbe.org.
Click Here for Psalm 128
Today pray for:
The Tunbridge Church and their pastor Deadra Ashton
Vernon Union Church
Our churches to work in unity with other churches for God’s glory
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