Lectio
“Free Israel, O God, from all his tribulations.” (Psalm 24:22)
Meditatio
In this verse, Israel can be seen as symbolising God’s people, chosen to bear His covenant. In the light of Christ, we see this prayer as extended to the Church. Christ came to set all of humanity free from sin, death, and the oppression of the world. When we pray for deliverance for Jews and the Land of Israel, we also pray for the salvation and liberation of God’s people everywhere, both spiritually and physically.
Tribulations can take many forms: personal struggles, societal oppression, spiritual battles, and persecution. Christ Himself suffered tribulations and ultimately overcame them through His death and Resurrection. As followers of Christ, we are assured that, though we face trials, Christ has conquered all tribulation (John 16:33). We can trust in Him for ultimate deliverance.
Meditate on the fulfilment of this prayer in Christ, who delivers not only the people of the Holy Land but all who come to Him, from every form of tribulation.
Oratio
O Lord, You are the Saviour of Israel and all the nations. I ask You to free Your people from all their tribulations. In Your mercy, deliver us from the trials and sufferings that weigh us down, and guide us through every hardship. Just as You delivered Israel from bondage and Christ from the grave, deliver us from sin, oppression, and the sorrows of this world. In You, we trust for our salvation and freedom. Amen.
Contemplatio
In silence, contemplate Christ as the Deliverer of His people. Imagine the ways Christ frees us from the tribulations of life, both seen and unseen. Meditate on how, through His Passion and Resurrection, He has broken the chains of sin and death. Rest in the assurance that, no matter the trials we face, Christ has the power to deliver us and bring us into freedom and peace.
Actio
Offer prayers for the Church, that God may deliver it from spiritual and physical tribulations. Pray for those who are persecuted or struggling.
Consider areas of your life where you need Christ’s deliverance and surrender them to Him, asking for His saving grace and strength.
Support those in your community who are facing tribulations, offering them help and encouragement in their trials.
(Guest author)
