You have made us the taunt of our neighbors, the derision and scorn of those around us. You have made us a byword among the nations, a laughingstock among the peoples. All day long my disgrace is before me, and shame has covered my face at the sound of the taunter and reviler, at the sight of the enemy and the avenger.

The state of the Church today in this country is a source of derision and scorn by those outside the Church. And it is no wonder when those in leadership live lives of defiance of Your Commandments and Your Word. It is no wonder when professing Christians live lives that are identical in purpose to those around them. It is no wonder when the Church focuses upon management and marketing practices drawn form the world to advance its mission. It is no wonder when that mission is defined by the same standards as the world about is, standards of membership and attendance. When will we drop to our knees and cry out to You, “We have sinned in Your eyes, we have not been faithful to our calling, forgive us, O Lord”

Today's readings in the Psalms:

Morning: Psalm 63

Mid-day: 119:121-128

Evening: Psalm 139

Voices Together is available as an annual daily devotional and can be purchased at the Fellowship Of Ailbe bookstore.