"Psalm 151"

 

“Psalm 151”

 

A recent issue of The Voice of the Martyrs magazine dealt with the theme “Where is God in suffering?” One article told of a church leadership training conference in India where participants were challenged to write “Psalm 151” based on the fact that most of the Psalms were composed from the authors’ life experiences. God moved me to write my personal “Psalm 151” patterned after Psalm 90, Moses’ prayer during Israel’s wilderness wanderings.

 

Lord, Your presence has carried me from youth to old age.

As a grade-schooler You reached down to me and in Your love, mercy and grace brought me to faith in Christ.

As a highschooler You called me to serve You in vocational ministry and provided resources to prepare for the work You had for me.

I praise You for giving me Karen as my constant companion through struggles and challenges for almost 56 years. I shudder to think of where I’d be without her love and support.

In pastoring, chaplaincy and now retirement I’ve sought to serve You by serving people. I’ve failed many times but You’ve been faithful in each step of my life. And You’ve met every need and given me far more than I deserve for which I cannot praise You enough.

I thank You for my family and desire to leave a godly legacy to guide and influence their lives. Please forgive my shortcomings. May the generations which follow me walk in Your ways.

I’m nearing the end of my earthly journey as I approach Birthday #82. May I wisely use the remainder of my days to fulfill the purpose for which You’ve put me on earth. And may I always make You look good by my words and actions.

To You be all the glory! Amen.

 

I’d encourage you to write your own “Psalm 151” of reflections on God’s grace and presence in your life and read it regularly as a reminder of His goodness.

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan