Scripture: Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 (NRSV)
DEVOTIONAL: As I read over this passage, I am struck by the anticipation of the Psalmist. At a time when I am overcome with schoolwork, the numerous other jobs to be done and with no end in sight, I have not been looking ahead with anticipation. There is one verse in the psalm that catches my feelings precisely; “Save us, we beseech you, O Lord! O Lord, we beseech you give us success!” Help me!
However, this is only one verse out of 10 where the Psalmist is not praising God and looking forward with anticipation at being with God. Perhaps I need to learn to look forward more. My focus has been so limited to the next due date on my schedule, that I have forgotten to anticipate the future and appreciate my wonderful God.
Have you taken time lately to think about all the wonderful possibilities of being with our Lord?
Scripture: Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 (NRSV)
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever!
2Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”
19Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the Lord.
20This is the gate of the Lord; the righteous shall enter through it.
21I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.
22The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.
23This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.
24This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
25Save us, we beseech you, O Lord! O Lord, we beseech you, give us success!
26Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. We bless you from the house of the Lord.
27The Lord is God, and he has given us light. Bind the festal procession with branches, up to the horns of the altar.
28You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God, I will extol you.
29O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.