The Daily Office for September 13, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
Psalm 50 is an indictment against hypocrisy and formalism in worship. It is also the first of the psalms of Asaph. The son of Berachiah, of the family of Gershom, Asaph was an eminent musician appointed by David to preside over the sacred choral services of Israel. The descendants of Asaph are recorded as "Choristers of the Temple." Asaph himself was a celebrated poet and twelve psalms (50, 73–83) bear his name.
The epic nature of this psalm is seen as it begins with a combination of three names for God: El, Elohim, and Jehovah (found only here and in Joshua 22:22). The Mighty One, The Self-Existent One, the “LORD God of gods” is depicted as summoning all the nations of the earth together to hear His pronouncement. The radiance of the Lord shines out of His holy hill in Zion. His presence is a perfect and magnificent sight. Flames and hurricanes are described as the attendants of His divine presence. We do indeed serve an awesome and magnificent God.
Collect for the Day
God of truth and love, who gave to your servant John Chrysostom eloquence to declare your righteousness in the great congregation and courage to bear reproach for the honour of your name: mercifully grant to those who minister your word such excellence in preaching, that all people may share with them in the glory that shall be revealed; 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.