You Will Show Me the Path of Life, My Hope and My Shelter
The original setting of Psalm 16 speaks of the psalmist’s confidence and trust in God for having been rescued from some imminent danger or calamity which could have led to death. The psalmist is confident that this saving act is all God’s doing. In being rescued from death-dealing events, the psalmist is also confident that God will continue to guide the faithful ones on the path of life, a journey ultimately leading to joy in God’s presence and esteemed and honorable delights at God’s right hand. Belief in the afterlife developed gradually in Judaism. Even up to Jesus’ time, there were obvious disagreements: the Pharisees affirming afterlife while Sadducees denied it. Jesus’ followers needed experiences to recognize the resurrected Jesus as alive in their midst, thus affirming belief in the afterlife and continued existence in God’s presence. Today, Christ comes to us in the scriptures, in the Breaking of the Bread, in the gathered faithful assembly as Church. If able, consider praying and reflecting on this psalm while walking some place.
Protect me, God, I turn to you for help.
I profess, “You are my God, my greatest good.”
You are my portion and my cup; you are my fortune, my prize.
I bless God who teaches me, who schools my heart even at night.
I am sure God is here, right beside me. I cannot be shaken.
So my heart rejoices, my body thrills with life, my whole being rests secure.
You will not abandon me to Sheol, nor send your faithful one to death.
You show me the road to life: boundless joy at your side for ever!
[verses adapted from The Psalter © 1995, Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications.]