A Lectio Divina meditation on Psalm 34 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.

I will bless the Beloved at all times;

a song of praise will I sing.

My soul speaks to the Beloved continually;

let all who suffer hear and be glad.

O, open your hearts, friends,

that your pain and loneliness 

be turned to Love;

And then, we shall rejoice in the Beloved

Together!

When I searched for Love, the Beloved

answered within my heart,

and all my fears flew away.

Look to the Beloved, and your

emptiness will be filled,

your face will radiate Love.

For when you weep, the Beloved hears

and comes to companion you;

your burdens are eased by Love. 

The Beloved sends angels when you

call upon these messengers 

for guidance and light,

for their gracious inspiration,

One with Love, you are never alone!

Happy are all who dwell in the 

Beloved’s heart!

Abandon yourself into Love’s hands,

O you holy ones,

For those who give themselves to 

the Beloved,

lack no good thing.

Everyone separated from Love is empty

And hungry within;

But those who open their hearts to 

the Beloved,

Are filled to overflowing!

O come and see, come and hear,

how we honour the Beloved.

Many there are who desire Life,

who yearn for fulfilment,

who covet the wisdom of Truth.

Keep your heart open and free,

take time to dwell in the Silence,

Become a peaceful presence in the world.

For the Beloved sees the deeds 

of our hearts, and 

Hears our innermost thoughts.

The face of the Beloved turns from 

the evil ways of men and women;

For Love is kind and merciful and

remembers not our sins. 

Rather, the Beloved is patient,

Ever-waiting for us to cry out

for forgiveness,

to embrace Love’s way

How often the Beloved weeps with 

compassion

over those who are crushed in spirit.

Though we are beset with many fears

that cause illness and troubles,

The Beloved is ever ready

to comfort us in our sorrows,

To strengthen us on our soul’s

journey to wholeness, 

The Beloved renews the life of all

who surrender to Love.