I Will Walk Before You, God, in the Land of the Living

I Will Walk Before You, God,
in the Land of the Living

Do you ever notice that so many of the psalms speak of thanksgiving for and praise to a saving, merciful God? Psalm 116 is a psalm of thanksgiving whereby the speaker responds to God’s help from some sickness, death, tragedy, anguish. No matter the situation, the faithful are called to trust in God, commit themselves to the service of God, and offer public thanksgiving to the saving work of God. As we reflect on these psalm verses, reflect on how we walk with God.

I kept faith, even when I said: “I am greatly afflicted.”
Precious in your sight is the death of your faithful ones.
Indeed, I am your servant; you have loosened my bonds.
I will offer sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on your holy name.

I will make my vows to you in the presence of all your people,
in the courts of your holy house, in the midst of all your saints.

[verses adapted from People’s Companion to the Breviary © 1997 by the Carmelites of Indianapolis]