Lenten Engagement: Psalm 40:1-5

First reading: pay attention to text as if reading for the first time.


Second reading: listen for words and phrases that seem to resonate with you. Make a note of these bright spots as you meditate on them.


I waited
He heard my cry
He drew me up from the pit of destruction
He set my feet upon a rock
He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to him
Blessed is the man who does not turn to those who go astray after a lie
You have multiplied...your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us
I will proclaim them

Third reading: Become aware of your emotional response to what you have noted. Contemplate what are you feeling. 


A sense of peace and calm
Relief: my feet are set upon safe ground
Frustrated and yet also hopeful: when will we sing a new song? Am I doing something to hold back?
Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord: He is accomplishing this. It doesn't depend on me. A sense of calm once again.
Happy to see that those who deceive will not succeed.
I will proclaim: I feel like I'm behind the pace. I don't think I proclaim enough.

Fourth reading: Reflect upon what God is saying to you through this text? What is God’s invitation to you today?


The Lord knows my problems. I will not be overcome. It is wise to cry out to him and wait for what he will do.

He's waiting for me to cry out for help so that he can show his love and power.

Writing and singing the song of God's faithfulness and goodness leads those who hear the song to trust in God as well.

The Lord is always thinking about me. How can I share this with others?