Reflection from Psalm No. 131
SIMPLICITY
I have used too many words in my prayers, Lord.
I have tried to fit in too many ideas.
I employ too many arguments.
I have tried to get my prayer,
All neatly tidied-up.
I have kept my eye on the clock.
Now I need to return
To the simplicity of childhood.
Not childish, but childlike.
Could it be that I have made the intellect
You gave me to find you,
An obstacle to seeing you?
I dont think myself better than others.
I dont pretend to know it all.
I am quiet now before the Lord,
The thoughts of a child on its mothers breast,
A childs thoughts were all my soul knew.
I have kept my whole being quiet and silent,
Like an infant quieted at its mothers breast,
Like an infant quieted in my whole being. Psalm 131:2
Glory be
This reflection was composed by Fr Kevin Lyon, a priest of the Dublin Diocese, and flows from his praying the psalms. Published in the book: Psalm-Prayers for every mood, reproduced with permission from the author and publishers: Columba Press, www.columba.ie