# 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"