Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: February 21, 2024

Date:  Wednesday of the 1st Week of Lent

Scripture Text:  Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19

R. (19b) A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;

in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.

Thoroughly wash me from my guilt

and of my sin cleanse me.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

A clean heart create for me, O God,

and a steadfast spirit renew within me.

Cast me not out from your presence,

and your Holy Spirit take not from me.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

For you are not pleased with sacrifices;

should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it.

My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit;

a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The psalm for today reminds us of the intent of Lent and of the LORD’s desire for us to live good and humble lives and to repent when we stray from doing right and being loving. The psalm also assures us of the LORD’s loving mercy.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I repent when I stray or choose unwisely and unlovingly? Do I seek the LORD’s mercy humbly?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, Beloved Son, Most Holy Spirit, always and everywhere, day after day, moment after moment, your love abounds and flows into each and every one of our lives. You created us in love to be loving people, loving You with our whole beings and loving one another as You love us. You loving goodness fuels your mercy for us when we stray and invites us to repent and begin anew. Stir within us the rightful humility of daughters and sons who rely upon You for life itself and for all goodness that exists. Tenderize our hearts and minds so that we might set down our selfish desires and seek always the loving path that leads to You. Give us contrite and humble hearts when we stray. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be world without end. Amen.