The Daily Office for January 18, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 38
Genesis 9:18-29
Hebrews 6:1-12
John 3:22-36
Reading (Psalm 38)
Reflection
The superscription over Psalm 38 reads, A psalm of David, to bring to remembrance. David felt that he had been forgotten by God because he had sinned and was desperately ill. This is one of the Penitential Psalms, and it is recited by many churches on Ash Wednesday. Of all the Penitential Psalms, this one exhibits perhaps the most severe state of body and mind. The psalmist knew he had sinned and a rebuke was necessary. His initial prayer, therefore, was not for the rebuke to end, but for the removal of God’s wrath. The believer can withstand God’s chastening, but he cannot withstand divine wrath.
Yet, in the midst of great distress and pain, the psalmist indicates a flicker of hope for his recovery. That hope stems from the fact that the Great Physician hears his groanings and understands his dilemma. The psalmist knew he was in danger from both his enemies and his severe physical condition. But in the midst of that danger he cried out to God in a faith that always conquers. Never forget, regardless of the circumstances or the gravity of a situation, we can always call out to God and he is ever ready to hear our pleas for forgiveness and restoration.
Collect of the Day
Almighty God, in Christ you make all things new: transform the poverty of our nature by the riches of your grace, and in the renewal of our lives make known your heavenly glory; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.