Every morning at Lauds the twin Benedictine communities here in Petersham pray Psalm 50, often called the Miserere. This is translated into English as “have mercy”, a plea we send up to God each day, and most likely many times a day! While this psalm is a central part of our morning liturgy all year round, it seems to harmonize well with the themes we highlight in Lent.
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning…” (Lam 3:22-23). This stunning reality is the springboard we use for our daily repentance; God’s mercy gives us the courage to admit our sinfulness and live in humility of heart.
Perhaps this Lent we can pray for new hearts: hearts of humility, hearts of mercy, hearts of ardent love—in short, the heart of Christ!
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