The Daily Office for February 21, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 26
Proverbs 30:1-33
Philippians 3:1-11
John 18:28-38
Reading (Psalm 26)
Reflection
In today's psalm reading David presents himself as someone who, despite any accusations that might be thrown against him, strives to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord. These heartfelt verses are an encouraging example for all of us who bear the burden of slander to take that burden to the throne of grace.
It's apparent that the psalmist has been falsely accused, but David’s references to personal righteousness are not to convince God that he should not be defamed. David is not sinlessly perfect; unlike Christ to whom this Messianic psalm points. We must understand these references in relation to verse 11, which clearly cancels out the spirit of self-righteousness. As a man greatly defamed, David simply rises in protest, asking the Lord, who knows the psalmist’s inner motives, to vindicate him and protect him from his enemies. Whenever we, as believers, are confronted with false accusations and lies it is important to turn our burdens over to the Lord who will protect and keep us against all forms of slander.
Collect for the Day
Almighty Father, whose Son was revealed in majesty before he suffered death upon the cross: give us grace to perceive his glory, that we may be strengthened to suffer with him and be changed into his likeness, from glory to glory; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.