Psalm 27 and Lent

In this psalm we pray for light to choose the right path, for understanding and seeing our purpose in life. The disciples called by Jesus had to make a decision: either remain in their present life and occupation or leave their source of income and security to follow Jesus. Such life-changing decisions are not easily made. They demand trust and courage. In this season of Lent we are called to look at our life’s path to see where God is leading and to ask for the graces we need to be faithful to this path.

In what way is Jesus light for us? How does he illumine the way we should go? Is he a part of our decision-making process, perhaps in the form of a question, “What does God want for me?” or “What does God want me to do in this situation?” Not always easy questions to answer and usually demanding that we spend time in prayer and reflection.

We pray in the psalm to dwell in the house of the Lord. To live with someone is to share intimately in their life. Here it’s the prayer of the individual intimately connected with God, but it’s also a prayer of the community, that as a people we live in the house of the Lord. How does that influence how we treat each other? How do we live as St. Paul calls us to: “that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and in the same purpose.”? This can be especially challenging when political and cultural differences can be so divisive, even within families.

We all need light, strength and perseverance, trusting that God will deliver us from our tribulations and bring us a share of the joy of living in the house of the Lord, beginning here and now. As we enter into the season of Lent, may God bless us, as we strive to follow our call to live in God’s house. As the psalmist encourages us, “Wait for the Lord with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord.” (Psalm 27:14)

“One thing I ask of the Lord; this I seek: to dwell in the Lord’s house all the days of my life.” (Psalm 27:4)