... from the readings of the day:
Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.
Psalm 23:4
Today's other readings feature men with authority misusing their power and authority, and their innocent victims relying on the Lord ...
PSALM 23
The Lord knows me and loves me, guides and
protects me.
The Lord is my lord, and gives me all I need
each day in bread and insight. The Lord quenches
my resentments: brings peace to my heart and mind.
I feel love and joy in all I see: my spirit soars.
The Lord knows me and loves me, guides and
protects me.
My Lord guides me and opens my ears. Even in
the droughts of my life, I reap peace.
Evil people conspire against me, but I trust in my
Lord standing strong beside me. I rely on my God.
The Lord knows me and loves me, guides and
protects me.
I see enemies plotting, but my spirit is at peace;
communion with the Lord blesses and protects me,
graces bubbling over. Each day of my life I listen
for my Lord, living always secure in my Father's mind.
The Lord knows me and loves me, guides and
protects me.
Suggestions for meditation
Always begin by offering your time to God and asking for the grace to grow closer: something like "My loving God, I love you with my whole heart and above all things. I give you this time as I reach out to you, and ask that you guide me now, and each day, closer to you".
The exact words of the prayer are not important but you do need a firm intention to open yourself to God's input.
Read the mediation over slowly a couple of times.
Listen for the personal message for you. There will always be one word or phrase that will reach into your heart. Think of it as the personal meaning God has for you alone!
If you would prefer a more authoritative reading to focus your meditation, try this from one of today's readings, Psalm 23
Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.
Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.
He guides me in right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side with your rod and your staff that give me courage.
Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.
You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.
Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD for years to come.
Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.Focus on a significant word or phrase in this passage or the meditation for a few moments.
Is there a word or phrase that jumps out to speak to you?
Why? Try to put yourself into those words. Maybe imagine Jesus speaking, and reply.
Then spend 5, or 10, or 15 minutes with your word from Jesus, or the word SHEPHERD or PROTECT.
You need a clear intention to empty your mind of random thoughts (you won't be entirely successful but you need the intention).
You might want to begin the meditation using the breathing exercise I suggest in We have two minds.
After a minute or two focused on your breathing, move your focus to the word/s you have chosen.
Each time your attention moves away from the word/s, push the distraction gently aside and return to the word ("without the intervention of analytical thought" as The Cloud of Unknowing puts it).
You may need a countdown clock.
At the end thank God, and return to your day.
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