Focus

Experience silence in the midst of your busy day. Take some time to relax into a time to be with God.

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Read

Psalm 111 (NRSV)

Praise the LORD!
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Great are the works of the LORD,
studied by all who delight in them.
Full of honor and majesty is his work,
and his righteousness endures forever.
He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds;
the LORD is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him;
he is ever mindful of his covenant.
He has shown his people the power of his works,
in giving them the heritage of the nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
all his precepts are trustworthy.
They are established forever and ever,
to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people;
he has commanded his covenant forever.
Holy and awesome is his name.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it[a] have a good understanding.
His praise endures forever.

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Reflect

Numerous psalms begin with the phrase “Praise the Lord!” (For example, Psalms 111, 112, and 113.) Many other psalms join in calling God’s people to remember God’s mercy and steadfast faithfulness throughout the generations.

The first line of Psalm 111:9 is worthy of particular attention: “[God] sent redemption to his people.” The psalmist might have had in mind the exodus from Egypt. But the phrase also calls to memory the intervention of God in the days of the judges such as Deborah, Gideon, and Samson. As a nation ruled by kings, Israel experienced salvation from enemies time after time. As long as the people remained true to God, they enjoyed freedom.

Verse 9 may also be considered prophetic, an announcement of the redemption that God would guarantee in the incarnation of God’s self in Jesus. Indeed in Jesus, God’s intention to save all nations was manifested as never before.

God’s salvation is still promised to us. The covenant with Israel is God’s promise to us. God’s aim to redeem is yet for all people. Sometimes, like ancient Israel, we betray the covenant promise. But God is faithful. “Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them” (verse 2).

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Pray

God of wisdom and power, let all the earth honor and praise you. Help us to remember your salvation made known to Israel. Grant us faith to accept and to share your redemption in Christ. Amen.

Go with God.