A Lectio Divina meditation on Psalm 50 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.

Have mercy on me, O Gracious One,

according to your steadfast love;

According to your abundant kindness

forgive me where my thoughts and

deeds have hurt others.

Lead me in the paths of justice,

guide my steps on paths of peace!

Teach me, that I may know my weaknesses,

the shortcomings that bind me,

The unloving ways that separate me,

That keep me from recognising

your Life in me;

For, I keep company with fear, and

dwell in the house of ignorance.

Yet, I was brought forth in love, 

And love is my birthright.

You have placed your truth in the

inner being;

therefore, teach me the wisdom

of the heart.

Forgive all that binds me in fear,

that I might radiate love;

cleanse me that your light might

shine in me.

Fill me with gladness; help me to 

transform weakness into strength.

Look not on my past mistakes

but on the aspirations

of my heart. 

Create in me a clean heart, O Gracious One,

and put a new and right spirit 

within me.

Enfold me in the arms of Love, and

fill me with your Holy Spirit.

Restore in me the joy of your saving grace,

and encourage me with a new spirit.

Then I will teach others of your ways,

and prisoners of fear will return

to You. 

Deliver me from the addictions of society,

O Healer of souls,

keep me from temptation that

I may tell of your justice

and mercy.

O Gracious One, open my lips and

my mouth shall sing forth

your praise.

For You do not want sacrifice; 

You delight in our friendship 

with You.

A sacrifice most appropriate is a 

humble spirit;

a repentant and contrite heart;

O Merciful One,

Receive our gratitude and love. 

Let the nations turn from war,

and encourage one another as 

good neighbours.

O Blessed and Compassionate Friend,

melt our hearts of stone,

break through the fears that 

Lead us into darkness, and

Guide our steps toward the way of peace.