May 1, 2023 — Psalm 19 

“The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them; and nothing is hid from its heat. The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults. Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalm 19 

“The 19th psalm is a prophecy. It speaks of how the Gospel would spread to the entire world, as far as the heavens extend. Day and night it would be spread, not only in Hebrew but in all languages. Just as the sun shines and gives warmth everywhere, so also will the new law of the Gospel enlighten and teach all kinds of people, comforting and purifying them. In this way the old Law is removed, which was not so pure, bright, lovely, or imperishable.” (Martin Luther, Reading the Psalms with Luther) 

As we approach the scriptures of G-d, between the pages of the Old and New Testament we will find as much as we might possibly hope to know about G-d. We learn about the human condition, which really has not changed much in the last 5000 years. We learn about sin and obedience. We learn what the Kingdom of G-d might be like — we learn that G-d simply wants fellowship with all of G-d’s creation. G-d’s word is all inclusive. And since G-d’s word is all inclusive, we soon learn how it applies to the person who reads it — no matter the language in which they read it. And they especially learn how throughout the Word of G-d we are called to return to a right relationship with G-d. It is this calling, this nudging, this pulling as we read the word that reminds us of how much G-d seeks a relationship with you and me. This is why we should always be working on the spiritual life. When we read scripture we should always read it with an eye on discernment. We need to set aside the appropriate amount of time each day to study the word and seek a closer relationship with G-d.  

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are the Sun of righteousness with healing in His wings. Enlighten our darkened understanding by Your Holy Word. Enkindle our hearts and mold our will to walk in faith, love, and hope unto all pleasing. Let the light of Your Gospel shine on the nations that sit in darkness, and preserve Your Church to the day of Your coming.  Amen. 

Pastor Dave