Born in Africa, 354 AD (or is it CE, I never know anymore) was Augustine of Hippo. Saint Augustine would live a life full of sinful behavior for his first 31 years. But at this age, he would give up his old life and devote his life to Christ. He would be baptized on the Easter Vigil by Ambrose in 387 CE (or is it AD).
Many have heard of his conversion and his turn to faith, which was attributed to many factors, but the main one being the faithful prayers of his mother Saint Monica. It is this Saint Augustine (not to be confused with Saint Augustine of Canterbury from very early 7th century) that would write the book Confessions so many have read (or at least heard of).
After his conversion to Christianity, St. Augustine of Hippo would become a priest and later bishop (of Hippo which is in modern-day Algeria, 395 CE or AD-take your pick). If you have never read Confessions, find a copy and spend some time with it, or read it HERE.
In Confessions, Saint Augustine references many times his conviction and encouragement drawn from Psalm 4. Psalm 4 is a short psalm, but it is not lacking in depth and meaning. It embodies turning to God and away from offending, away from sin. It proclaims the very power of God’s will, love, and presence. It declares God alone is the source of peace and safety. It is a great reminder for us all.
As we put a close to the 3rd quarter of Lent, and begin to draw nearer to the Lord Jesus Christ’s Passion, I encourage you to pray through Psalm 4 today. Be still and listen, let the Spirit speak to your heart, and prepare you for the love found in the suffering we will soon recall.
In the traditional English (Coverdale Psalter of the 2019 Book of Common Prayer)-
1 Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness *thou hast set me at liberty when I was in trouble; have mercy upon me, and hearken unto my prayer.
2 O ye sons of men, how long will ye blaspheme mine honour *and have such pleasure in vanity, and seek after leasing?
3 Know this also, that the Lord hath chosen to himself the man that is godly *when I call upon the Lord, he will hear me.
4 Stand in awe, and sin not *commune with your own heart, and in your chamber, and be still.
5 Offer the sacrifice of righteousness *and put your trust in the Lord.
6 There be many that say *Who will shew us any good?
7 Lord, lift thou up *the light of thy countenance upon us.
8 Thou hast put gladness in my heart *since the time that their corn and wine and oil increased.
9 I will lay me down in peace, and take my rest *for it is thou, Lord, only, that makest me dwell in safety.
AMEN.