Psalm 40

 LECTIO:        Ps 40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10

Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

I have waited, waited for the LORD,
and he stooped toward me and heard my cry.
And he put a new song into my mouth,
a hymn to our God.

Sacrifice or offering you wished not,
but ears open to obedience you gave me.
Holocausts or sin-offerings you sought not;
then said I, "Behold I come."

"In the written scroll it is prescribed for me,
to do your will, O my God, is my delight,
and your law is within my heart!"

I announced your justice in the vast assembly;
I did not restrain my lips, as you, O LORD, know.
Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

STUDIUM:

The psalm begins waiting.  Either the people are captives in Babylon or they have just been released from exile. It was the practice to pierce ears as a sign of servitude to a master. But as followers of the true Lord, "ears are open" to You, O Lord.  This psalm is both one of thanksgiving and also of supplication, which is unusual, we now have a new work, stressing loyalty, and service.

MEDITATIO:

As I think over the times, I've cried out to You, my Lord, I can only see the times You came to help me.  Surely there were times, You didn't come.  Weren't there?  I don't remember any.  I'm sure there are many times You answered in mysterious ways, that later resulted for the best.  Maybe, it's good that I can only remember Your help, because You promised to always answer prayers and I believe You do.

ORATIO:

It is in my heart to do Your Will.  That's why I am a Lay Dominican.  

CONTEMPLATIO:

Here I am, Lord.