Monday 27th January
Read Psalm 119:129-136
“Pe
129 Your statutes are wonderful;
therefore I obey them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
it gives understanding to the simple.
131 I open my mouth and pant,
longing for your commands.
132 Turn to me and have mercy on me,
as you always do to those who love your name.
133 Direct my footsteps according to your word;
let no sin rule over me.
134 Redeem me from human oppression,
that I may obey your precepts.
135 Make your face shine on your servant
and teach me your decrees.
136 Streams of tears flow from my eyes,
for your law is not obeyed.” (NIVUK)
I recognise I have ignored your instructions, and the joy of the journey is lost. v129-136.
Previously the psalmist has mentioned that God’s commands are like gold, and it seems he continues to reflect and be in awe (wonderful, pant, longing) of what God has given in his statutes/ commands. God’s word prompts obedience and gives light (= direction?) and understanding. It seems this understanding brings a recognition of sin and the need for repentance and seeking after the mercy of a gracious God (as you always do to those who love your name). With this repentance comes a confidence to ask for redemption/restoration of relationship, to be protected; why, so that the psalmist can obey. He says, yes, Lord let your face shine on me, please be with me on this journey so I can’t ignore you. This stanza highlights the sadness (tears) of disobedience (sin), and it is easy to interpret this as others sin, but the context suggests that tears are about a recognition of self, and the repentant heart mentioned in previous lines.
Geoff Hinch
