OPENING OUR MINDS and HEARTS

Psalm 72

This Psalm is a prayer for rulers who are just. While in ancient times, the ruler was a single person, in our times rulers include democratically elected officials, judges, police officers and all in authority over others. Justice is a cornerstone of God’s love and a key mark of a decent society; therefore, this day as we reflect on the need for reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people let it be our prayer that justice flourish and peace abound.

(Prayer for Guidance and Support for the Ruler - Of Solomon)

Give the ruler your justice, O God,
and your righteousness to the royal heir. for judging your people rightly,

and upholding the poor with justice,
that the mountains may bring forth peace for the people, and the hills, prosperity with justice.
May your anointed ruler defend

the cause of the poor among the people, save the children of the needy,

and break open the heart of the oppressor.

May your anointed rulers live as long as the sun endures, and as long as the moon, from age to age.
May your anointed be like rain that falls on the fields, like showers that water the earth.

May your anointed cause justice to flourish
and peace abound, until the moon is no more. May your anointed have dominion from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth...

Matthew 5:21-24

The author of Matthew’s gospel speaks of reconciliation and the need for it before one makes an offering. In other words, before we give to God what is sacred to us, the gift needs be given with integrity. Let the ancient words wash over you and reside in your heart and spirit.

‘You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, “You shall not murder”; and “whoever murders shall be liable to judgement.” But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgement; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, “You fool”, you will be liable to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your

gift.