Miserator Dominus - English Translation
Antiphon: The merciful Lord gave nourishment to those who feared Him, for a memory of His wonderful works.
Psalm 110 - Confitebor Tibi
1. I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; in the council of the just, and in the congregation.
2. Great are the works of the Lord: sought out according to all his wills.
3. His work is praise and magnificence: and his justice continueth for ever and ever.
4. He hath made a remembrance of his wonderful works, being a merciful and gracious Lord:
5. He hath given food to them that fear him. He will be mindful for ever of his covenant:
6. He will shew forth to his people the power of his works.
7. That he may give them the inheritance of the Gentiles: the works of his hands are truth and judgment.
8. All his commandments are faithful: confirmed for ever and ever, made in truth and equity.
9. He hath sent redemption to his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever. Holy and terrible is his name:
10. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. A good understanding to all that do it: his praise continueth for ever and ever.
Repeat Antiphon.
Click here for the Latin lyrics.
This hymn pays homage to the infinite mercy of God. Indeed, God always gives good things to those who have the proper reverential fear of him, which is similar to the reverence a child has (or should have) for his father. It is not the morbid fear of a slave for his wicked master, or a child for his abusing father. It is rather a healthy fear of a creature for his infinitely powerful Creator, Who is also infinite Goodness. With this healthy fear in his soul, the just man will strive to avoid displeasing God, and will grow to love Him more and more.
The Psalm speaks on this issue as well, saying, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Indeed, Fear of the Lord is the lowest of the 7 gifts of the Holy Spirit, while Wisdom is the highest. The higher gifts are not given without the lowest. Who can have the gift of Fortitude or Counsel, who has not the Fear of the Lord?
This is found on the following CD(s):
Chant Compendium 4.
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