A progressive Christian reflection on the Revised Common Lectionary

Okay, this is the opening of the introduction to the Psalter – the Book of Psalms -

Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers; but their delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law they meditate day and night. – Psalm 1:1-2

I confess that there are times, particularly when I read excerpts like the one above, when I understand why there was a lot of debate about whether or not to include what we call the “Old Testament” in the Christian Bible. However, I have always believed, and still do, that since the Message of the Christ is timeless, we can find meaning in all sacred text.

It’s just that sometimes it takes more adjustment for time, and culture, and translation.

The author of this introduction may have seen the “law of the Lord” as the collection of edicts and regulations contained in manuscripts like Leviticus. However, it’s just as possible that he was referring to the agapé relationship with Theos that the gospel writers portray Jesus as championing.

That “living law” is a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament.

May it also be the theme that runs through our hearts as we “meditate day and night” on our interconnectedness with all of Creation.