A Lectio Divina meditation on Psalm 26 from Nan Merrill’s book Psalms for Praying

Experience stillness and in the quiet hear what God is offering from these rich and hope-filled words.

Speak on my behalf, O Beloved,

for I would choose the path

that leads back Home,

trusting in your love

without reserve.

May my heart be as your Heart;

May my mind be as your Mind.

May your steadfast love guide me

As I live according to your Will,

You, O Counsellor, are my strength

and my guide; so

I choose the path of peace

and wholeness.

I walk with friends of integrity,

and associate with those

who live in truth;

I love the company of faith-filled

people,

and count myself among those

who make your World their own.

Cleanse my heart in innocence

that I might childlike be,

Singing songs of thanksgiving

and proclaiming the

Beloved’s way.

O Loving Presence, I cherish your

dwelling place, my heart;

O, that I might radiate Love Divine.

Keep me always in you presence,

Ever-ready to praise your Name.

Make me holy, complete in You,

Write my name among the saints.

For I choose the path of peace

and wholeness;

The Counsellor is my strength

and my guide.

Standing with equanimity in heaven’s

blessed company,

I shall know Love and Peace

beyond the world’s understanding.

Blessed are You, O my Beloved!