This Lent I've invited you to pray the psalms in a particular way. (If you're new to this page today, look here for the method of prayer we've been using this Lent.)
Today we return to the scripture with which we began, Psalm 51, the classic psalm of repentance for any day and certainly in the season of Lent.
Tomorrow I'll post the weekly Litany of the Blessed Virgin we've been praying with on Saturdays in Lent. Then beginning with Palm Sunday, we'll turn to other scriptures particularly appropriate for Holy Week.
Psalm 51
Have mercy, tender God,
forget that I defied you.
Wash away my sin,
cleanse me from my guilt.
I know my evil well,
it stares me in the face,
evil done to you alone
before your very eyes.
How right your condemnation!
Your verdict clearly just.
You see me for what I am,
a sinner before my birth.
You love those centered in truth,
teach me your hidden wisdom.
Wash me with fresh water,
wash me bright as snow.
Fill me with happy songs,
let the bones you have bruised now dance.
Shut your eyes to my sin,
make my guild disappear.
Creator, reshape my heart,
God, steady my spirit.
Do not cast me aside
stripped of your holy spirit.
Save me, bring back my joy,
support me, strengthen my will.
Then I will teach your way
and sinners will turn to you.
Help me, stop my tears,
and I will sing your goodness.
Lord, give me words
and I will shout your praise.
When I offer a holocaust*
the gift does not please you.
So I offer my shattered spirit;
a changed heart you welcome.
*a sacrificial animal, a burnt offering
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