DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Blessing
by Elaine Pierce
Psalm 67 is full of joy and hope. Unlike some of the other psalms we have looked at this summer, this is the kind of psalm you could sing in church. No raining down threats of destruction on our enemies. No despair, wondering where God is. No fear of enemies crouching at the door. Joy, wonder and blessing abound in this psalm.
The Israelites would have been familiar with the tone of this psalm. It echoes the well-known blessing in Numbers 6:4-6:
"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."
The Lord gave this blessing to Moses to give to Aaron and the people as they traveled to the Promised Land. Note in Psalm 67:2, that the writer is asking God to bless ALL the nations. That includes us - the gentiles! Verses 3 and 4 continue that theme, asking that ALL the people praise God.
And what is the goal of a blessing from God? Verse 7 provides the answer:
God will bless us, and all the ends of the earth will fear him.
As we see time and again in scripture, we are not the center of the universe. God is creator, redeemer, and savior. He made us, and we are made to bring glory to him.
I read in one commentary that Psalm 67 calls for a string orchestra to accompany the psalm. As you meditate on God's word, put on some music that speaks to your heart, and thank him for his many blessings.
PRAYER
Lord, you are good, and you long for us to sing your praises. Help us each day to come to you with a joyful heart, and to thank you for the ways you lead us, guide us, and teach us.
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