Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, open my ears to hear what you have to say to me; open my heart to love your word, and open my mind to understand your truth.
Psalm 89 is a Royal Psalm, one of a selection of psalms which all feature content concerning the relationship between God and the king. For example, some relate to coronations, some appeal for aid before battle, and some are for royal weddings. Psalm 89 relates to national trouble after the king has been defeated in battle.
The psalmist begins by praising God and describing God’s covenant made with David. At such a painful national moment he remembers God’s might and that he has promised that David’s dynasty will be preserved forever.
The psalm turns to lament in verses 38–51, with accusations that God has not kept his promise to David. This implies that the king has faced defeat in battle and probable death. The psalm may be referencing the death of Josiah in 609 BC (2 Kings 23.29) – a good king, and one who had eradicated the corruption he saw before him – or it may be a reference to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 587/6 BC.
The psalm ends with the psalmist bringing his grief to God in prayer. In a situation he cannot reconcile in his mind, he turns to God.
The Messianic hope, the promise of a servant king in the line of David who represents God on earth, prevailed despite a series of bad kings and the eventual downfall of Judah.
Christians see this Messianic hope as fulfilled in Jesus. So from our vantage point God had not failed in his promise but his purpose was even greater and his time-scale different to the psalmist's expectations.
Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus, a King who saves. Amen.
This reflection was written by Katy Dorrer, Catholic Scripture Engagement Officer at Bible Society
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