On Sundays, Night Prayer draws from some element of the day’s liturgy. This evening we turn to the Psalm 85, sung at mass as the response to the first reading. I’d suggest listening to the musical selection before praying tonight’s reflection – and then listening again to the psalm!
Lord, let us see your kindness,
and grant us your salvation.
I will hear what God proclaims;
the Lord
the Lord
— for he proclaims peace.
Near indeed is his salvation to those who fear him,
glory dwelling in our land.
Kindness and truth shall meet;
justice and peace shall kiss.
Truth shall spring out of the earth,
and justice shall look down from heaven.
The Lord himself will give his benefits;
our land shall yield its increase.
Justice shall walk before him,
and prepare the way of his steps.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Truly, Lord, I pray to see your kindness
– I need to see your kindness –
dwelling in our land and in the world,
dwelling in my neighborhood and parish,
dwelling in my home and in my family,
dwelling in my thoughts and words and deeds…
I long to see the marriage, Lord,
of kindness wed to truth,
wherein kindness finds its noble strength
and truth its gentle mercy…
I long for that communion Lord,
when peace and justice kiss:
when love is found and joy abounds
and all is one with you…
Let truth spring up and bloom, Lord,
like the flowers, trees and crops
while your justice shines in glory
as a light upon our path…
Let us see your kindness, Lord,
your blessings and your gifts
your saving love and mercy,
your favor and your grace…
Protect us, Lord while we’re awake
and watch over us while we sleep
that awake, we might keep watch with you
and asleep, rest in your peace…
