Blessed Are Those Who Fear God

Blessed Are Those Who Fear God

This Sunday’s first reading and Psalm 128 together offer us a balanced image of a woman and man who, each in their respective social roles, are faithful to God’s desires about the manner of human living. Crouched in domestic terms the readings offer models for all sorts of lifestyles, vocations and situations in life. The woman patiently runs the household according to God’s instruction, realizing wealth not only for the home but also for the poor. The man conducts his affairs patiently and righteously for the family, the city and the nation. Having an awesome respect for God will always prompt a believer to choose the right course of action.

Blessed are they who fear you,
O God, and walk in your ways!
By the labor of their hands they shall eat.

A husband will be happy and prosper;
a wife like a fruitful vine in the heart of her house;
their children like olive shoot around their table.

Indeed thus shall be blessed
those who fear you, O God.
May you bless them from Zion
all the days of their lives.