Living Psalm 119:33-40

Living Psalms Book

Psalms in the form of words and art, reborn in the specific contexts of our world, privileging the voices of historically marginalized communities and those acting in solidarity with them.

When faithful followers read you rightly, O Eternal,
your laws make a more heavenly earth.
Give us understanding of your commandments
so we can live them well.

Help us hear when your decrees have been twisted
to accommodate hate or exclusion,
to maintain power for the powerful,
to project fear from the fearful.

Grant us insight to see your statutes
in action—policies of equity,
beloved community emerging naturally.

When we forget your promise, O Eternal,
hold us gently accountable;
for your word is good,
and we long for loving correction.

Heal our wounds from others’ shaming rebukes—
the attempted keeping of your precepts
by broken humanity.

Keep teaching, O Eternal,
and we promise to keep learning.

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Living Psalm 119:33-40 was written by Sharon Benton.

Living Psalms Book is created by UCC Witness & Worship Artists’ Group, a Network of UCC connected artists, activists and ministers bridging the worship and liturgy of the local church with witness and action in the community. Maren Tirabassi, editor

Logo is detail from Living Psalm 80 by Sophia Beardemphl, Redwoods, CA. Recovering from significant bullying, Sophia, age nine, read Psalm 80 and thought of brokenness that needs mending. She drew this broken and mended bowl.

© Copyright 2026 Sharon Benton. Permission granted to reproduce or adapt this material for use in services of worship or church education. All publishing rights reserved.