Lectio Divina: For the 1st Week in Lent

Please read slowly and reflectively.

Slowly count to five at the end of each line.

A READING FROM PSALM 51 (FIRST READER ONLY)

Have mercy on me, o gracious one,/

According to your steadfast love;/

According to your abundant kindness/

Forgive me/

Where my thoughts and deeds have hurt others/

Lead me in the paths of justice,/

Guide my steps on paths of peace!/

Teach me, that I may know my weaknesses,/

The shortcomings that bind me./

You have placed your truth in the inner being;/

Teach me the wisdom of the heart,/

Forgive all that binds me in fear,/

That I might radiate love./

Create in me a clean heart, o gracious one,/

And put a new spirit within me./