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 51—Pentecost 10B

Ok, I’m not perfect, but you already know that. 
So, go easy on me, God. 
Let your love grow so big it overshadows my mistakes. 

Place me in the shower of your grace and wash me clean from my guilt and shame. 

I have fallen short of the expectations I have for myself, the expectation others have for me, but most importantly, I have fallen short of what you expect for me. 

Life has not been perfect. From the moment I entered this world, the path has not been clear. It’s as if trouble found me in my mother’s womb and has followed me ever since. 

My only refuge is living in truth and I have discovered that the truth of my life 
reveals your wisdom that has been placed deep within my heart. 
And it’s this truth, that scrubs me clean of the past. 

I feel like a weight has been lifted. Your joy fills me up! You don’t hold my flaws against me. You won’t turn away from me when I need you most. 

I just want to do the right thing. God, keep that desire in my heart 
and direct my attention and intention only to that which is good and true.

Stay close to me, God. Please don’t allow me to stray from your goodness. 
Don’t allow my ego to distract me. Remind me of our special relationship 
and keep me open and willing to follow you all the way. 

Living Psalm  51 for Pentecost 10B, was written by the Rev. Dr. Ray Jordan.

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.  

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 2021 Ray Jordan.  Permission granted to reproduce or adapt this material for use in services of worship or church education.  All publishing rights reserved.