Psalms – Chapter 128

Old Testament8 Verses

1A gradual canticle. Often have they fought against me from my youth, let Israel now say.

2Often have they fought against me from my youth: but they could not prevail over me.

3The wicked have wrought upon my back: they have lengthened their iniquity.

4The Lord who is just will cut the necks of sinners:

5Let them all be confounded and turned back that hate Sion.

6Let them be as grass upon the tops of houses: which withereth before it be plucked up:

7Who with the mower filleth not his hand: nor he that gathereth sheaves his bosom.

8And they that passed by have not said: The blessing of the Lord be upon you: we have blessed you in the name of the Lord.

Reflection for Today

The message of Psalms Chapter 128 unfolds within the broader narrative of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God. Catholic theology, drawing on the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589), sees in this chapter a call to deeper faith. The principle that God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him guides our interpretation.

The Church Fathers, including St. Augustine, St. Jerome, and St. John Chrysostom, devoted themselves to explaining Scripture for the faithful. Their insights, preserved in the Church's Tradition, continue to illuminate our reading. The Catechism reminds us that "the Church has always venerated the divine Scriptures as she venerated the Body of the Lord" (CIC 103).

As you engage with this chapter, bring your questions, struggles, and hopes to the text. God's Word addresses the whole person—mind, heart, and will. Through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, we receive the grace to live what we read. May this chapter strengthen your faith and deepen your love for Christ and His Church.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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