Psalm 41 – Nan Merrill in Psalms for Praying, an Invitation to Wholeness
Who among us hears the cry of the poor?
How many open their hearts
and heed the call?
The plight of the world is a wound
to the very Heart of Love,
a scar on our own souls.
Blessed are those who lovingly respond!
The Friend, who knows all hearts,
will remember their kindness.
They will know joy, peace, and deep
fulfillment working in harmony
with all who serve toward healing
the needs of this troubled world.
As for me, I prayed, “O Soul Mender,
be gracious unto me.
For I have been deaf to those in need;
my fears paralyzed me.
I am bound like a prisoner held
in my own house
alone and abandoned.
Each fear I push away or deny
rises up with power;
feeling anxious, lies and deceipt
take the place of truth.
I can hide no longer; my confusion,
the way I blame others,
have turned even my friends away.”
“O Divine Healer, help me face the fears
that threaten to overwhelm me;
without your guidance, they will
bring about what I most fear!
I am on my knees asking forgiveness;
give me strength to turn all
that separates me from You
into love and kindness.
You, who are Unconditional Love, You
so not judge our weaknesses;
raise me up, that I may be renewed
in body, mind, and soul!
By this I know that You have
graciously forgiven me;
fear did not triumph over me,
though my heart was broken open
so the light could enter in.
You upheld me, filled me with integrity,
and opened my heart to the poor.
Blessed be the Beloved, loving Presence
to all hearts open to Love,
from everlasting to everlasting!
Amen.
