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Lectio Divina for 16 September 2024

Lectio

“Be exalted, Yahweh, by your own power. We will play music and sing psalms to your virtues.” (Psalm 20:14)

Meditatio

  • This is a prayer of praise, acknowledging the supreme and unmatched power of God. His power is not dependent on anyone or anything; it is intrinsic to His divine nature. Meditate on how God’s power has been manifest in your life—whether through answered prayers, unexpected blessings, or the strength to endure trials. Think about the many times in Scripture where God’s power was displayed, particularly through Christ’s victory over sin and death in the Resurrection.
  • Music and song are natural responses to God’s greatness. In King David’s time, music was a means of praising the Lord for His attributes—His justice, mercy, love, and strength. As Christians, we are called to lift our voices in praise of Christ, who embodies these virtues perfectly. Meditate on how Christ’s virtues—His compassion, sacrifice, and holiness—move you to praise. Think about how you might use your own talents, whether in music, prayer, or other forms of worship, to exalt Him.
  • Christ, being the full revelation of God, is the ultimate reason for our praise. Through His Resurrection, He is exalted above all, and it is by His power that we are saved. The virtues that David speaks of—justice, mercy, love—are perfectly realised in our Lord Jesus Christ. Meditate on how Christ’s life, death, and Resurrection call you to continual praise, and how His victory over death gives you a reason to exalt Him daily.

Oratio

Lord Yahweh, You are exalted by Your own power, and we, Your people, lift our voices to praise You. In Christ, You have shown us the fullness of Your virtues—Your mercy, justice, and love. May my heart always be filled with the desire to praise You, whether through song, prayer, or acts of charity. Strengthen me to recognise Your power in my life and to respond with gratitude and joy. Amen.

Contemplatio

  • Spend time contemplating on the limitless power of God. Recognise how this power, manifest in Christ, sustains you and holds you up in times of difficulty.
  • Contemplate on how Christ’s victory over death is a cause for daily celebration and gratitude. Let this truth bring peace and joy to your soul.

Actio

  • Praise God in all circumstances. Whether in joy or trial, commit to praising God daily for His virtues and power. Offer up your prayer and song as a sacrifice of love.
  • Use your gifts for worship. If you have a talent for music, use it to glorify God. If not, find other ways to praise Him, whether through spoken prayer, acts of charity, or simply reflecting on His goodness.

By exalting Yahweh and recognising His power, you live in the light of His glory, particularly as revealed through Christ’s saving work. Let your life be a song of praise to Him.

Please pray for peace and safety in the Holy Land. (info)