Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
I love the LORD, because he has heard my voice and my supplications.
Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
What shall I return to the LORD for all his bounty to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD,
I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people. Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful ones.
O LORD, I am your servant; I am your servant, the child of your serving girl. You have loosed my bonds. I will offer to you a thanksgiving sacrifice and call on the name of the LORD.
I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people, in the courts of the house of the LORD, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the LORD!

Reflection:
This Psalm speaks of our gratitude toward God for hearing our prayers and freeing us from our fears and sorrows. It speaks of our confidence in God’s help. And it promises God that we will show the same mercy and compassion toward others that He has shown to us.

Prayer:
Thank you, Lord, for all the wonderful things You have done for me. How can I respond other than to be as merciful and caring toward others as you have been to me? I would be lost without you. I know I’m not alone, and that others also need mercy and care. Please show me what I can do, and open my heart to the opportunities for mercy and caring around me that I have not been seeing. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

– John Hayes