By Paul Keim, professor of Bible and religion
Scripture: Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 (NRSV)
Like most communal laments, Psalm 85 embeds its petition within a conventional frame. It begins with a reminder of God’s gracious acts on behalf of the people in the past (vv. 1-3). It concludes with an effusive confidence that God will once again intervene on behalf of the people (vv. 8-13). Nestled within is the heart of the hymn, a heartfelt appeal for restoration and rest (vv. 4-7). Things are not going all that well for God’s people right now. But there is reason for hope. God has responded before to the distress of the community. God’s anger has not burned uncontrollably. Deliverance is near at hand for those with true hearts and faithful ways.
The poetic imagery of the restoration envisioned in vv. 8-13 is among the best of the Psalter. The LORD will speak peace to the people. Love and truth, righteousness and peace are personified in a striking metaphor of the covenantal integrity of God’s care. Salvation is enacted by the four key virtues, personified in a union of encounter and embrace.
Political polarization and a raging pandemic have impinged upon our common life, from the economy to education. In times of crisis the once seemingly stable categories of our reality dissolve piecemeal. We feel isolated and confused. We are not sure anymore who we can trust, or where the current path may lead. We look to leaders, but can they save? The hallmark of God’s deliverance is the reintegration of ourselves and the reconstitution of our world. To imagine that embrace and to feel that caress describes the yearning at the heart of worship.
Scripture: Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 (NRSV)
Lord, you were favorable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
2You forgave the iniquity of your people; you pardoned all their sin. Selah
8Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.
9Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.
10Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
11Faithfulness will spring up from the ground, and righteousness will look down from the sky.
12The Lord will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase.
13Righteousness will go before him, and will make a path for his steps.