FIRST SCRIPTURE READING, responsively, Psalm 112:1-9
(The Message)
Praise the LORD! Hallelujah! Blessed man, blessed woman, who fear God, who cherish and relish his commandments! Their children are robust on the earth. And the homes of the upright - how blessed!
Their houses brim with spiritual wealth, with a generosity that never runs dry. Sunrise breaks through the darkness for good people - God's grace and mercy and justice! The good person is generous and lends lavishly, conducting their affairs with justice.
No shuffling or stumbling around for this one; but a sterling and solid and lasting reputation. Unfazed by rumor and gossip, heart ready, trusting in God, spirit firm, unperturbed; ever blessed, relaxed among enemies.
They lavish gifts on the poor - a generosity that goes on, and on, and on. An honored life! A beautiful life!
This is the Word of the Lord!
Thanks be to God!
