Psalm 62 invites plenty of pauses, a time to be still and sink into our deepest longings found only in God. As you listen to the text, notice the word or phrase or picture which evokes your longing. Give yourself permission to linger in the stillness and feel the ache of it. Stay there for a while and keep company with God just as you are with all the feelings and physical sensations that rise up within you. The wise ones, who have gone before, urge us to keep coming back to this vulnerable, intimate place with God to discover all the love that we need.
Be especially gentle with yourself if the payback clause at the end of the text is particularly triggering for you. This may be particularly present for those who have been formed with a punishing, vindictive image of God. If this is you, it is natural that your body might freeze up or shut down. When you notice this happening, anchor yourself in your physical body in the present moment. See if you can inwardly acknowledge, “something about this text makes something in me feel …” (frightened, terrified, find your best description). And see if you can allow God to see you just as you are with these overwhelming feelings. Notice what it is like for you to be seen feeling this way. Notice the ways you would turn towards a terrified child or pet. See if it is possible to take in that kind of loving, caring affection with God right there with you.
Go slow. Be patient. Be kind to yourself in the process. God is with us in all things. Waiting in silence carries the possibility of opening our ears, eyes and heart to notice.
Psalm 62 :5-12 (The Voice)
My soul quietly waits for the True God alone
because I hope only in Him.
He alone is my rock and deliverance,
my citadel high on a hill;
I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my significance depend ultimately on God;
the core of my strength, my shelter, is in the True God.
Have faith in Him in all circumstances, dear people.
Open up your heart to Him;
the True God shelters us in His arms.
[pause]
Human beings disappear like a breath;
even people of rank live artificial lives.
Their weight is that of a breath in a balance—nothing.
Added together, they’re still lighter than air.
Do not resort to oppression;
resist the temptation of ill-gotten gain.
If you achieve wealth, don’t let your heart get attached.
The True God spoke this once,
and twice I’ve heard:
That You, the True God, hold all power;
Your love never fails, O Lord,
for You pay every person back
according to his deeds.
For Reflection and Prayer:
Was there a word, phrase or image which caught your attention you as you listened to or slowly read the text? Quietly savor this with Jesus.
Notice any felt sense that seems to emerge as you linger with this passage. It might come as a bodily feeling, emotion, metaphor, picture, gesture or sound. See if you can describe it and simply be with it with patient curiosity. Be open to whatever more might emerge.
Perhaps you might want to draw, color or journal your conversation.
As the time of prayer comes to a close, share some quiet moments with Jesus, simply resting safely in his presence.