April 21, 2021 – Psalms 127-131

John Calvin began The Institutes of the Christian Religion: “Nearly all the wisdom we possess, that is to say, true and sound wisdom, consists of two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves.” With just a few words the psalmist reflects on this knowledge and the hope we sinners have before holy God: “If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope” (130:3-5).

Who can stand before the Lord? Only the righteous for he is perfectly righteous and we are not. What to do? Wait for the Lord! Trust in the Lord with whom is forgiveness, our iniquities having been covered by the blood of his Son!

My hope is in the Lord,

And not in mine own merit;

I rest upon His faithful word

To them of contrite spirit.

That He is merciful and just,--

This is my comfort and my trust,

His help I wait with patience. –Martin Luther