In you, O Lord, I seek refuge; do not let me ever be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me. Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily. Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me. You are indeed my rock and my fortress; for your name’s sake lead me and guide me, take me out of the net that is hidden for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God. (Psalm 31: 1-5)

Many months ago I chose a difficult path. There were not many other paths available, so there was no particular honor in the choice. But as I began the path I was full of dread.

At the very beginning of the path the words of this psalm were offered to me. For more than one year, closer to two years, these words have encouraged me.

Despite my fear, pride, fret, and stupidity I have been led. I have been guided in surprising - really fantastic - ways.

In the words of the Psalms, in the lessons of Deuteronomy, in the beauty of an ancient language I have been offered wisdom and redemption.

The path is still difficult. Perhaps the difficulty is also a gift. There is no temptation to believe in my own sufficiency. But walking this path and experiencing these words is thrilling and fulfilling.

O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and the dry land, which his hands have formed. O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. (Psalm 95: 1-7)