The Daily Office for February 3, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 69
Genesis 24:1-27
Hebrews 12:3-11
John 7:1-13
Reading (Psalm 69)
Reflection
An important feature of this psalm is its messianic character. With the exception of Psalm 22, no portion of the Old Testament is more frequently quoted by the New Testament writers. Just as obvious, however, is the fact that some of these verses must refer only to David and not to Jesus. It would have been impossible, for example, for Christ to have acknowledged sin, as is done in verse 5. Likewise, at the point of our Lord’s greatest persecution, when He asked the Father to forgive those who crucified Him Lk 23:34 the psalmist takes an entirely different position. It is evident, then, that portions of the psalm were designed strictly for the author.
What confidence and great praise concludes a psalm that began with such despair and how wonderful is the God who executes such change. Jesus Christ will one day sit on the throne of David in David’s city, God’s city, Jerusalem. He who suffered much at the hands of oppressors will one day rule the world from the city of His oppression. Whatever challenges you face, be assured that God has all things under His control and that He will preserve and keep you for all time.
Collect for the Day
Almighty and ever-living God, clothed in majesty, whose beloved Son was this day presented in the Temple, in substance of our flesh: grant that we may be presented to you with pure and clean hearts, by your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.