A reflection on Psalm 1

Pacino di Bonaguida, Tree of Life, 1310

A personal reflection and prayer based on Psalm 1, one of the psalms appointed for Morning Prayer today.

The Tree of Life.

Evergreen.

Rooted.

Strong yet tender.

Yearning for the Son.

The Cross of Jesus.

The Tree of Death.

Planted itself.

It’s fruits are sweet poison.

It’s boughs false protection.

Relishing in its own shadow.

Thirsty, weak and dying.

Prayer

Lord, when we become overawed by our own strength and majesty;

when the desire to shelter and nourish others is driven not by love but by our need for control,

help us to remember who planted the seed of life and love in us,

   and to live this day for your glory.

Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14.6)