The Daily Office for October 27, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
To a greater degree than usual, the interpretation of this psalm depends on its occasion for writing. There is no question but that David is the author, but why did he write this psalm? The superscription over the psalm says, A psalm and song at the dedication of the house of David. Obviously, this cannot refer to the building of the Temple; for David did not see such a building. But the historical outline of II Samuel 24 and I Chronicles 21 provides a perfect framework into which we may place Psalm 30, describing the purchase, the erection of an altar, and the dedication by David of the threshing floor of Araunah. It seems likely that the dedication of this site, upon which later David’s son would build the glorious Solomonic Temple, is meant by the superscription of the psalm.
Collect for the Day
God, the giver of life, whose Holy Spirit wells up within your Church: by the Spirit’s gifts equip us to live the gospel of Christ and make us eager to do your will, that we may share with the whole creation the joys of eternal life; 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.