Living Psalm 26: 1-8

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.

Living Psalm 26: 1-8_Mankin for August 30

There is a saying in Icelandic
that translates roughly to
“Lay your head in water.”
“Að leggja höfuðið í bleyti.” *

It is an invitation for self-inquiry:
Take a breath. Slow down.
Clarity may arrive after a good soak,
or in this careful pause.

Examine me, God; put me to the test!
But what if the test is asking that I rest?
What if God asks me to be still
(and sit with my choices,)
to reflect on how I spend my minutes?

I walk all around your altar, God,
proclaiming out loud my thanks,
declaring all your wonderful deeds!
I sing so loudly your praises
and I forget (to pause,) to listen for Your voice.

If I sit still too long, I grow anxious.
I need confirmation of my goodness,
that the path I tread is righteous.
You must know, God, the goodness
in my heart – look at all I have given up.
Examine all that I do, and praise…me.

No, that is not…not what I meant.
I praise You! I sit at the right table,
my mind is set to all that is holy.
Will you examine me?
Will you tell me I’m good?

And when there is no parade for my deeds,
no reward, even in justice,
are You still here?

If I lay down my head to let the cool waters
soothe my brow, if I pause and pause and
pause,
will You draw near?
No laurel wreaths or crowns,
no pews or hymns, or cheering crowds,
just me
holding a home here
for You.
*Að leggja höfuðið í bleyti pronounce “ath LEG-ger HURH-fud ee BLEH-ti”

#Living Psalm 26-1-8_Mankin Download

Living Psalm 26:1-8 was written by Rev. Maren Mankin.

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.