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.
Sometimes we face a rebuilding moment in our lives and communities – a rebuilding and repairing of our relationship with God and other people. It sometimes comes at a time of crisis or change and it can be hard to face or see beyond. Today’s psalm perhaps offers a practical guide for these times.
Psalm 85 is another communal lament. It may have been written after the exile when a remnant had returned to Jerusalem from Babylon. The first few verses could be the psalmist giving thanks for the remnant’s return from exile and then a request for renewal of strength and favour (verses 4–7). If the original singers were the remnant who returned, they faced huge challenges in the ruined city and a lot of practical and spiritual rebuilding. In the midst of this despair, the psalm includes prophetic declarations of hope that God will once again restore them fully, if they repent and turn away from their foolish ways for good (verses 8–9). Finally, the psalm ends with beautiful prophetic imagery of the restoration of Eden (verses 10–13). This vision gives us something to aim for and is an encouragement in itself, that by God’s grace these virtues will overflow from our lives when we live in complete loyalty to God.
Heavenly Father, we long for this vision of love and faithfulness meeting, of righteousness and peace embracing, of our human loyalty reaching out to you and being pleasing in your sight. Please cultivate this in us by your Spirit. Amen
This reflection was written by Katy Dorrer, Catholic Scripture Engagement Officer at Bible Society
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