Lectio
Passage: When I called upon him, the God of my justice heard me: when I was in distress, thou hast enlarged me. Have mercy on me: and hear my prayer. O ye sons of men, how long will you be dull of heart? why do you love vanity, and seek after lying? Know ye also that the Lord hath made his holy one wonderful: the Lord will hear me when I shall cry unto him. Be angry, and sin not: the things you say in your hearts, be sorry for them upon your beds. Offer up the sacrifice of justice, and trust in the Lord: many say, Who sheweth us good things? The light of thy countenance O Lord, is signed upon us: thou hast given gladness in my heart. By the fruit of their corn, their wine and oil, they are multiplied. In peace in the selfsame I will sleep, and I will rest: For thou, O Lord, singularly hast settled me in hope. (Psalm 4)
Meditatio
- God’s Response in Distress: Meditate on how God hears and responds when we call upon Him, especially in times of distress. Think about moments when God has answered your prayers and provided relief.
- Vanity and Deception: Consider the warning against loving vanity and seeking after lies. Reflect on how worldly pursuits and falsehoods can distract from true fulfilment in God.
- God’s Holiness and Faithfulness: Meditate on the assurance that the Lord has made His holy one wonderful and that He hears our cries. Meditate on God’s faithfulness and His special care for His chosen ones.
- Righteous Anger and Reflection: Meditate on the call to be angry but not sin, and to be contrite in our hearts. Consider how anger should be managed and how reflection on our actions can lead to repentance.
- Sacrifice of Justice and Trust: Think about the call to offer sacrifices of justice and trust in Yahweh. Reflect on how living justly and trusting God brings true peace and fulfilment.
- Divine Joy and Blessing: Meditate on the joy and gladness that come from God’s presence and blessing. Consider how God’s light and favour are greater than material abundance.
- Peace and Hope in God: Meditate on the peace and rest that come from trusting in God. Reflect on how God settles us in hope, providing security and tranquillity.
Oratio
Respond to the passage with a heartfelt prayer.
Lord, Thou art my God, the God of justice and mercy. In my distress, Thou hast heard me and provided relief. Grant me the grace to turn away from vanity and deception, and to seek Thy truth. I thank Thee for hearing my cries. Help me to manage my anger righteously and to reflect on my actions with a contrite heart. I offer unto Thee the sacrifice of justice and place my trust in Thee. Thy light brings gladness to my heart, greater than any material blessing. In Thy peace, I find rest, and in Thy hope, I am securely settled. Amen.
Contemplatio
Contemplate the image of God as your protector and provider, hearing your prayers and enlarging you in times of distress. Feel the peace and gladness that come from His presence and favour. Rest in the security and hope that God provides, allowing this contemplation to deepen your trust and love for Him.
Actio
- Seek God’s Presence in Distress: In times of trouble, consciously turn to God in prayer and trust in His response.
- Avoid Vanity and Lies: Examine your life for areas where you might be pursuing vanity or falsehood and make a commitment to seek God’s truth instead.
- Practice Righteous Anger: When you feel anger, manage it in a way that does not lead to sin, and take time to reflect on your actions and seek repentance if needed.
- Live Justly and Trust God: Strive to live a life of justice and place your trust in Yahweh, knowing that His favour brings true joy and peace.
- Embrace Divine Peace and Hope: Cultivate a habit of resting in God’s peace and trusting in His hope, allowing this to bring stability and security to your life.
