In Psalm 71, the writer acknowledges the protection of God "from the day I was born,"
"since I was young," and "all the day long"--and then prays for God's continued
protection "when I am old and my hair turns gray."
Tomorrow in worship, we will celebrate a baptism, and we'll sing these words: "I was
there to hear your borning cry; I'll be there when you are old."
God is with us in every time of life, from our first breath to our last. "I will praise you,
God, the Holy One of Israel. You are faithful!"
Psalm 71 (vv. 1-6, 17-19, 22, Contemporary English Version)
I run to you, Lord,
for protection.
Don’t disappoint me.
2 You do what is right,
so come to my rescue.
Listen to my prayer
and keep me safe.
3 Be my mighty rock,
the place
where I can always run
for protection.
Save me by your command!
You are my mighty rock
and my fortress.
4 Come and save me, Lord God,
from vicious and cruel
and brutal enemies!
5 I depend on you,
and I have trusted you
since I was young.
6 I have relied on you
from the day I was born.
You brought me safely
through birth,
and I always praise you.
17 You have taught me
since I was a child,
and I never stop telling about
your marvelous deeds.
18 Don’t leave me when I am old
and my hair turns gray.
Let me tell future generations
about your mighty power.
19 Your deeds of kindness
are known in the heavens.
No one is like you!
22 I will praise you, God,
the Holy One of Israel.
You are faithful.
I will play the harp
and sing your praises.