Revised Common Lectionary (Semicontinuous)
A song for those who go up to Jerusalem to worship the Lord. A psalm of David.
131 Lord, my heart isn’t proud.
My eyes aren’t proud either.
I don’t concern myself with important matters.
I don’t concern myself with things that are too wonderful for me.
2 I have made myself calm and content
like a young child in its mother’s arms.
Deep down inside me, I am as content as a young child.
3 Israel, put your hope in the Lord
both now and forever.
22 The Lord hates those whose lips tell lies.
But he is pleased with people who tell the truth.
23 Wise people keep their knowledge to themselves.
But the hearts of foolish people shout foolish things.
24 Hands that work hard will rule.
But people who are lazy will be forced to work.
25 Worry makes the heart heavy.
But a kind word cheers it up.
26 Godly people are careful about the friends they choose.
But the way of sinners leads them down the wrong path.
27 Lazy people do not even cook what they catch.
But those who work hard eat their fill of what is hunted.
28 There is life in doing what is right.
Along that path you will never die.
Timothy and Epaphroditus
19 I hope to send Timothy to you soon if the Lord Jesus allows it. Then I will be encouraged when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like Timothy. He will truly care about how you are doing. 21 All the others are looking out for their own interests. They are not looking out for the interests of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself. He has served with me like a son with his father in spreading the good news. 23 So I hope to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I’m sure I myself will come soon if the Lord allows it.
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