Psalm for the 4th Sunday of Lent (C)

Psalm 34:2-7

Our responsorial psalm for Laetare Sunday is from Psalm 34, a thanksgiving in acrostic form, which means each line begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet.

This psalm is woven with themes of joy, hope, and divine deliverance, offering a contrast to the penitential tone of Lent while reassuring us of God’s goodness and the approaching glory of Easter.

I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall be ever in my mouth. Let my soul glory in the LORD; the lowly will hear me and be glad.

The psalmist commits to blessing God “at all times,” indicating unwavering devotion, regardless of circumstances. While God blesses humans by granting favor, strength, or provision, humans bless God by offering worship, gratitude, and honor. This praise is not limited to good times but remains constant, even amid trials.

This outward praise probably takes place in some kind of liturgical setting, for it is heard by the lowly (’ănāwîm), those who live in trust and dependence on the LORD.

Glorify the LORD with me, let us together extol his name.

The psalmist calls others to join in communal praise, recognizing and rejoicing in God’s goodness.

I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

Without going into detail, the psalmist confesses to having been in distress, turning to the LORD, and being rescued. This is why the psalmist glorifies God and bids others to do the same.

Look to him that you may be radiant with joy, and your faces may not blush with shame. 

After giving witness to others, the attitude of the psalmist develops into a pedagogical technique, teaching others to act in the same way by giving explicit instructions.

Those who rely on God are radiant, illuminated with his glory and grace — a reflection of the inner transformation that comes from encountering God’s presence. God removes the shame of sin, failure, or personal struggles. Those who trust in God do not have to live in their past mistakes or guilt, because God’s grace transforms their lives.

When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him.

The psalmist identifies himself with the poor and humble. Those who call on God in their poverty — whether materially, emotionally, or spiritually — are not only heard but delivered from all distress.

No matter how big or small the struggle, God is faithful to save.