This Psalm is read from Psalms for Praying by Nan Merrill

Nan says “Psalms for Praying is in no way meant to be replace the well-loved, still meaningful, and historically important Psalms of the Hebrew Scripture. May it stand as a companion, a dialogue, if you will, of one age speaking with a later age. May it serve as an invitation to listen to the Voice of Silence that speaks within your own soul.”

O Beloved, how numerous are my fears!

They rise up within me whispering

there is no help for you.

Yet You, O Beloved, radiate Love

around me, my glory;

gratitude becomes my song,

When I cry out to You,

You answer within my heart.

I lie down to sleep; if I should

awaken, my Beloved is there

holding me with strength

and tenderness.

I feel secure.

Now, I shall forgive all illusions

that my ego tries to build.

For my courage is in You, O Love,

You who are the Lover hidden

in every heart.

Rise up, Love! Set me free!

For through your guidance,

my fears will fade into love.

Free from fear, I will know

the Oneness of Being that

encompasses everything!

I shall be free to serve Love

with a glad and open heart.