Lectio
Passage: Conduct me, O Lord, in thy justice: because of my enemies, direct my way in thy sight. For there is no truth in [the enemy’s] mouth; their heart is vain. Their throat is an open sepulchre: they dealt deceitfully with their tongues: judge them, O God. Let them fall from their devices: according to the multitude of their wickedness cast them out: for they have provoked thee, O Lord. But let all them be glad that hope in thee: they shall rejoice for ever, and thou shalt dwell in them. And all they that love thy name shall glory in thee: For thou wilt bless the just. O Lord, thou hast crowned us, as with a shield of thy good will. (Psalm 5:9-13, Douay-Rheims)
Meditatio
- Seeking Divine Guidance: Meditate on David’s plea for God’s guidance and justice in the face of enemies. Meditate on the need for divine direction in your life, especially amidst challenges and adversaries.
- Nature of the Wicked: Consider the description of the enemies—deceitful, vain, and malicious. Reflect on the ways in which deceit and malice can corrupt the human heart and the world around us.
- God’s Judgment: Meditate on David’s call for God’s judgment on the wicked. Reflect on the Lord’s righteousness and the assurance that He will judge the evil justly.
- Joy of the Righteous: Meditate on the joy and gladness of those who place their hope in God. Reflect on the promise of divine presence and the glory that comes from loving the Lord’s name.
- Divine Blessing: Meditate on the assurance that God blesses the just and protects them with His good will, like a shield. Consider how you experience the Lord’s protection and blessing in your own life.
Oratio
Lord, guide me in Thy justice and direct my way in Thy sight. Protect me from deceit and malice, and deliver me from the plans of the wicked. Judge those who oppose Thee and let them fall by their own devices. I place my hope in Thee, rejoicing in Thy divine presence and glory. Bless me, O Lord, and shield me with Thy goodwill. Help me to live righteously and to trust in Thine unfailing protection and guidance. Amen.
Contemplatio
Contemplate the image of the Lord guiding your path amidst the presence of enemies and deceit. Feel the assurance of divine justice and protection. Rest in the joy and gladness that come from placing your hope in God and experiencing His presence. Reflect on the divine blessing that surrounds you like a shield, offering protection and goodwill.
Actio
- Seek Divine Guidance: Commit to seeking God’s guidance in your daily decisions, especially when facing challenges or opposition.
- Reject Deceit: Examine your heart and actions for any trace of deceit or malice, and strive to live truthfully and righteously.
- Trust in God’s Justice: In moments of injustice or conflict, place your trust in Yahweh’s righteous judgment and avoid taking matters into your own hands.
- Rejoice in God’s Presence: Make a practice of rejoicing in God’s presence and glory, recognising the joy and peace that come from loving and trusting Him.
- Embrace Divine Protection: Reflect on the ways God has protected and blessed you, and carry this assurance into your daily life, trusting in His goodwill and shielding presence.
