Psalm 67:2-3,5-6,8

Our responsorial psalm for today’s feast comes from Psalm 67, a hymn of thanksgiving and a communal prayer for God’s blessings. It highlights themes of blessing, divine favor, and God’s universal plan for salvation — all central elements of the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God

May God have pity on us and bless us; may he let his face shine upon us.

This echoes the first words of the Aaronic Blessing in our first reading (Numbers 6:24-26), emphasizing God’s blessings and the shining of his face as a sign of divine favor.

So may your way be known upon earth; among all nations, your salvation.

The psalmist envisions a world where all people recognize God’s goodness.

This aligns with the message of the second reading (Galatians 4:4-7), which speaks of the universal scope of salvation through Christ.

May the nations be glad and exult because you rule the peoples in equity; the nations on the earth you guide.

God’s justice is portrayed as cause for global celebration, indicating that his rule brings fairness, guidance, and peace.

Notice that “the nations on the earth” are now under God’s guidance. God is depicted not only as Israel’s king but as the ruler of the entire earth.

May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you!

This poetic repetition underlines the joy and universality of God’s glory being acknowledged by all.

May God bless us, and may all the ends of the earth fear him!

The psalm closes with a prayer for continued blessings, emphasizing their ultimate purpose: a global recognition of God’s majesty.