Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 22, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Wednesday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time; Memorial of St. Cecelia

Scripture Text: Psalm 17:1bcd, 5-6, 8b and 15

R. (15b) Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full. Hear, O LORD, a just suit; attend to my outcry; hearken to my prayer from lips without deceit. R. Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full. My steps have been steadfast in your paths, my feet have not faltered. I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me; hear my word. R. Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full. Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings. But I in justice shall behold your face; on waking, I shall be content in your presence. R. Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

Today’s responsorial psalm reminds us of the LORD’s power and presence, constant manifestations of the LORD’s love for us. The psalmist cries out to the LORD with faith-filled hope, sure of the LORD’s care, sure of the LORD’s listening. The psalmist gives us a glimpse into the hope of the faithful: “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.” The final line underscores powerfully the full hope of those of faith: “I in justice shall behold your face…I shall be content in your presence.”

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I ponder often, as I should, the LORD’s power and presence in my life for me? Do I consider what it means to be held as “the apple of your eye” by the LORD? Do I comprehend how the LORD hides me in the shadow of his wings?

Praying:

LORD of life and love itself, we come to You full of wonder and awe, aware of your power and presence always and everywhere, aware of your care for us and desire for our lives. Grant that we may cling securely to our faith in You, that we may demonstrate the resiliency of true hope in You and your promises, and that we may live fully the love You have poured out to us, loving You with our whole mind, heart and strength, and loving one another as You love us. Amen.