A Lectio Divina meditation on Psalm 46 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.

The Beloved is our refuge and our strength,

a Loving Presence in times of trouble.

Therefore we need not fear though

the earth should change,

though the mountains shake in the 

heart of the sea;

Though its waters roar and foam,

Though the mountains tremble 

with its tumult.

There is a river whose streams

make glad the Holy City,

the holy habitation of the Most High.

The Beloved is in the midst of it,

it shall not be moved;

Our loving Creator is an

ever-present help.

The nations may be at war,

Countries left in ruins,

yet is the Voice of the Almighty

Heard, slowly breaking through

hearts of stone.

The Beloved is ever with us,

the infinite Heart of Love.

Come, behold the works of the Beloved,

how love does reign even in 

humanity’s desolation. 

For the Beloved yearns for wars to cease,

shining light into fearful hearts; loving

even those who oppress the weak,

refining hearts of steel!

“Be still and know that I am Love.

Awaken! Befriend justice and mercy;

Do you not know you bear my Love?

Who among you will respond?”

O Blessed One, You know all hearts,

You are ever with us;

may Love ever guide our lives!