May 15, 2022 - Psalms 105-107

These psalms provide recollections of Israel’s history and the manner in which God dealt with his people. The sins of the people are recounted along with the harsh discipline meted out to them because of their iniquities. The cries of the people, as they petitioned the Lord, are remembered. I think the following verses provide sort of a summary statement of the situation.

“They were rebellious in their purposes and were brought low through their iniquity. Nevertheless, he looked upon their distress, when he heard their cry. For their sake he remembered his covenant, and relented according to the abundance of his steadfast love. He caused them to be pitied by all those who held them captive.” (106:43-46). Time and time again, in their suffering, as they did in Egypt and in the time of the judges, the people prayed, “Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise” (106:47). Israel so desperately needed God’s mercy as do we. Israel’s hope is our hope and, so, we sing:

The great I AM has sworn;

I on this oath depend.

I shall, on eagle wings upborne,

to heaven ascend.

I shall behold God's face;

I shall God's power adore,

and sing the wonders of God's grace

forevermore. -- Daniel ben Judah (14th century)