We arrive this morning at one of my favorite psalms, 31. I have loved the language of the version from the Book of Common Prayer for so long: In you, O Lord, have I taken refuge. Let me never be put to shame….”
Beautiful language that is grounded in the reality of life. The later verses of the Psalm speak of the hardship of life:
“I have passed out of mind like one
who is dead;
I have become like a broken
vessel” (NRSV)
Honesty….not trying to cover up the struggles of life, but rather seeking to see the light through the cracks as it were.
“In you, O Lord, I seek refuge;
do not let me ever be put to
shame;
in your righteousness deliver
me.
Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily.
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me.” (NRSV)
The Book of Common Prayer evokes this image of crag and castle….wonderful….stone and the permanence of God in the changing nature of our world….and our struggles.
I found Norman Fischer’s words particularly moving this morning. Whereas the NRSV goes on a bit to say, “for your name’s sake lead me and guide me,” listen to Fischer’s image:
“Be my rock of protection
Like a mountain my stronghold of safety
You are my rock and my stronghold
For the sake of your unsayableness
Lead me, guide me…”
Profound: the unsayableness of God….and this being the anchor of our protection….our grounding…..
S+
Thoughts on a Contemplative Reformation 
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