July 10 Reflection

Reading - Psalm 85-87

Reflection Text - Psalm 85


The writers of this Psalm, the Korahites saw Jerusalem and the place of meeting—the PLACE that God had promised to the Israelites. Then they were exiled from it and after the exile they returned to their city. Many believe that this Song is written post-exile times when the people of God were finally allowed to come home. So when the Psalmist writes, “Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger through all generations? Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?” I wonder why, if they are back in their place of home…back in their place where they have value and FEEL the Lord’s promises, then why are they lamenting again. I thought this was the place you wanted me? Were they spoiled?

No. They were a part of the unfolding plan of God that was leading to a new power and presence that shattered the last. Many believe that the last 5 verses are the Messianic verses of the text, pointing toward a reality greater than a place. It was a deeper salvation that the Psalmist refers to twice as the LORD’s SALVATION. It belonged to Him and was still to unfold. There was a greater salvation for these pastor/worship leader sons that obviously transcended time and place but what was it?

It was the yearning for the peace of God IN them.

Could it be that the perfect place for us to experience the fullness of God’s peace, described here as “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven” has nothing to do with a place but has everything to do with God’s desire to sink His roots way down deep WITHIN each of us. That is the place where He dwells. That is the power that walks into EVERY place that we walk into. That is shalom---a peace that can only come from God’s dwelling within.

Philippians 4:6-7 says “Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.”