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Elaine Pierce

September 17 | Psalm 114


 

DAILY READING

 

REFLECTION


Trembling Before our Creator

by Elaine Pierce


Jesus probably sang this psalm along with his disciples on the night of his betrayal and arrest (Matthew 26:30; Mark 14:26). If you have ever attended a Jewish Passover Seder, you have heard this psalm read as part of the service. Psalm 114 is called the "Song of Exodus" and it celebrates the incredible miracle the Israelites experienced when God parted the Red Sea, allowing them to flee the powerful Egyptian Army and cross safely to begin their journey to the Promised Land.


The Psalmist asks, "Why was it, O sea, that you fled, O Jordan, that you turned back?" (v. 5) The answer comes in verse 7:"Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob." The sea had no choice: God was in control. Yes, God is all powerful, all mighty. This psalm poetically describes how nature bows to his will.


Crossing the Red Sea is a pivotal point in Israel's history. They have lived in bondage in Egypt for nearly 500 years. It is not their home. Verses 1 and 2 tell us that "When Israel came out of Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of foreign tongue, Judah became God's sanctuary, Israel his dominion." God has promised the Jews that he will bring them a land flowing with milk and honey, and that he will establish them as his chosen people. God made Israel his sanctuary. He established Israel for his purposes, not for their ease and comfort. God's plans are for all people to come to know him (look again at v. 7 - "Tremble O earth, at the presence of the Lord." That's everyone on earth - that's us!)


The journey to the Promised Land was not an easy one, and I look forward to our study on the book of Exodus in the coming weeks. Let's come together to thank God for what he has done for his people - yesterday, today, and in days to come.


PRAYER

Lord, the earth trembles before you, and we bow before you and thank you for your marvelous works. You created the heavens and earth, and you created each one of us - in your own image. Help us to worship you in spirit and in truth. Amen.




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