Reading: Psalm 118:15-21

Father God,
extend your right hand of blessing over me.
Work on my behalf.
Show me your mercy,
your power and glory.
Again and again,
I will give you thanks,
for you answered me.
Amen.

— — — —

He [David] said:

“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
    my shield and the horn of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—
    from violent people you save me.

“I called to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
    and have been saved from my enemies.
The waves of death swirled about me;
    the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me.
The cords of the grave coiled around me;
    the snares of death confronted me.
“In my distress I called to the LORD;
    I called out to my God.
From his temple he heard my voice;
    my cry came to his ears.
(2 Samuel 22:2-7 NIV)*