The Daily Office for September 15, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
Psalm 55 is a prayer of confidence in the face of distress and treachery. Many believe it was written by David at the time of Absalom’s rebellion. But the intent of the psalm may go beyond the era of sorrow marked by Absalom’s rebellion and point to the suffering of our Lord at the hand of His familiar friend, the betrayer Judas. One cannot escape noticing the similarities between this aspect of the psalmist’s life and that of Jesus. In confident resolution, the psalmist suggests that when treacherously treated by those we trust, the wise course of action is to turn to the Lord. David resolves to not show violence for violence, but will commit his oppressors to God and live above their oppression.
Collect for the Day
Holy God, who brought Cyprian to faith in Christ, made him a bishop in the Church and crowned his witness with a martyr’s death: grant that, after his example, we may love the Church and her teachings, find your forgiveness within her fellowship and so come to share the heavenly banquet you have prepared for us; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.