Psalm 16

This psalm links Jesus, the Carthusians and Lough Derg Station Island. It is found in the office of readings for Good Friday. It is used by the Carthusians when they make a commitment and it is prayed at the end of each of the nine ‘stations’ on Lough Derg island for pilgrims.

Pray it daily to unite with Jesus’ willingness to live and die for us, to ask God for vocations to the Carthusian order, male and female and to pray with and for those who go on the boat across to Station Island Lough Derg to pray.

Psalm 16

Preserve me God, I take refuge in you

I say to the Lord: You are my God.

My happiness lies in you alone.

He has put into my heart a marvellous love

for the faithful ones who dwell in his land

Those who choose other gods

increase their sorrows.

Never will I offer their offerings of blood.

Never will I take their name upon my lips.

O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup,

it is you yourself who are m y prize.

The lot marked out for me is my delight

welcome indeed the heritage that falls to me!

I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel,

who even at night directs my heart.

I keep the Lord ever in my sight

Since he is at my right hand, I shall stand firm.

And so my heart rejoices, my soul is glad;

even my body shall rest in safety.

For you will not leave my soul among the dead,

nor let your beloved know decay.

You will show me the path of life,

the fullness of joy in your presence,

at your right hand happiness for ever.

Give praise to the Father Almighty,

to his Son Jesus Christ the Lord,

to the Spirit who dwells in our hearts,

both now and forever.

Amen

If you learn it by heart and let the words fall before you like a fragrant path that you walk on daily you will not be sorry.