Chapter 17: The number of psalms to be sung at the hours
We have already set out the order of the psalms for Vigils and for Lauds. Now let us look at the order of the psalms for the rest of the Hours. (From para. 1 of Ch. 17 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
Benedict's instructions about ordering the psalms for the hours, like the disciplined repetition of the mantra, teach me that God is always with me -- that Jesus is praying in me, that I am called to join him in the river of constant praise to the Father.
“O God come to my assistance, O Lord make haste to help me.” This introduction to every Hour is powerful. It reminds me of a WWII army veteran, my friend and my mentor, who, after the war, had suffered from severe post-traumatic stress disorder with debilitating depression and anxiety and panic attacks. The vet told how repetition of these words throughout the day, like a mantra, for over a year gradually calmed and healed this severely wounded warrior. Abba, never let me forget your healing power. Make me its instrument, today.
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