Psalm 119

The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
teach me your statutes.
You have dealt well with your servant,
O Lord, according to your word.
Teach me good judgement and knowledge,
for I believe in your commandments.

All of creation proclaims the steadfast love, lovingkindness, grace, chesed of God.

Goodness, truth, and beauty abound.

It is also true that these gifts are sometimes well-wrapped, and may even be packaged in a clam-shell that seems to require a power saw to remove.

Teach me to recognize and receive your gifts.

When boldness is required, help me be bold. When humility is better, teach me. When patience is needed, restrain me. When persistence is my contribution to reclaiming the wholeness of your creation, give me the strength and courage to play my role. Teach me, O God, the way of reality, preserve me on the path, and bring me in your pleasure to my fulfillment.

Psalm 119