Psalm 2

Thursday 2^nd January

Read Psalm 2

“Why do the nations conspire
    and the peoples plot in vain?
² The kings of the earth rise up
    and the rulers band together
    against the Lord and against his anointed, saying,
³ ‘Let us break their chains
    and throw off their shackles.’

⁴ The One enthroned in heaven laughs;
    the Lord scoffs at them.
⁵ He rebukes them in his anger
    and terrifies them in his wrath, saying,
⁶ ‘I have installed my king
    on Zion, my holy mountain.’

⁷ I will proclaim the Lord’s decree:

He said to me, ‘You are my son;
    today I have become your father.
⁸ Ask me,
    and I will make the nations your inheritance,
    the ends of the earth your possession.
⁹ You will break them with a rod of iron^[b];
    you will dash them to pieces like pottery.’

¹⁰ Therefore, you kings, be wise;
    be warned, you rulers of the earth.
¹¹ Serve the Lord with fear
    and celebrate his rule with trembling.
¹² Kiss his son, or he will be angry
    and your way will lead to your destruction,
for his wrath can flare up in a moment.
    Blessed are all who take refuge in him.” (NIVUK)

On Palm Sunday, we read the story of Jesus entry into Jerusalem (7/3) but this time it is in an OT context of a king’s coronation (king David and/or?). A new king on the throne, what are the implications for this? This king is a king over all nations, one put there by the Lord (The One and only God) and therefore rebellion against this new king is futile; God can laugh at those who think their rebellion will succeed, don’t do it, His wrath is terrifying. This king is the Lord’s Son and therefore all (nations) belong to him and if you have any sense at all you will fear him and follow him faithfully. Those who do follow this King faithfully and wholeheartedly can find rest and protection forever. There are clear references to the coming of Jesus in this psalm and the call to personally follow faithfully and in awe.  There is also a message for the peoples/societies/nations of the world that no matter how powerful, independent, and strong you think you are, when this new King comes, you will have to stand before Him as He judges (at any moment) rebellious hearts.  Can we help people to see the King and find His rest and protection?

Geoff Hinch