The Daily Office for October 30, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
Psalm 45 is a heavenly wedding song that rejoices in the union of Christ, the Bridegroom, and His bride, the church. This psalm possesses an unusually long and complicated title, perhaps to mark its royalty or deep importance. The title is "To the chief musician upon Shoshannim, for the sons of Korah. A Maschil, A song of loves." As elsewhere the psalm is addressed to the chief musician, the head of the tabernacle choir. The word Shoshannim literally means lilies; but exactly what "upon lilies" means is difficult to say. Similar expressions occur in three other psalms (60, 69, and 80). Perhaps it is descriptive of a trumpet-like instrument shaped like lilies or denotes some tune or melody according to which the psalm is to be rendered. The quotation of verses 6 and 7 in Hebrews 1:8–9, as applicable to Christ, is conclusive evidence that this is a messianic hymn of praise to the marriage of the Lamb.
Collect for the Day
Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: help us so to hear them, to read, mark, learn and inwardly digest them that, through patience, and the comfort of your holy word, we may embrace and for ever hold fast the hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.