SCRIPTURE: Psalm 47
Imagine being bullied for years, then finally having someone stand up for you, protect you and put you in a position of authority.
Think about the joy you would feel, the deep gratitude you would have towards your protector and benefactor.
This is the feeling behind Psalm 47, the praise of the victim vindicated.
But this joy is not just for the underdog, it is for everyone, for God stands up for everyone, and always resists the cruel and unjust.
Including His own people, God will oppose Israel (or the church) if they become cruel bullies.
God is not just nice to His own chosen people, but to all people; anyone can find shelter and protection and justice from Him.
This psalm may have been written for when the Ark of the Covenant – known as God’s throne or mercy seat – was set up in the temple.
One important lesson here is how God is God for everyone, His mercy and His justice are available to all.
Sadly, too many people have suffered at the hands of the bully church, they do not know God’s mercy, they don’t appreciate God’s reign.
This is why our job is to declare and demonstrate God’s kingdom revealed through Jesus, a kingdom of love and joy and leave and grace and mercy.
Jesus shows us again how God sides with the underdog, overcomes injustice and violence, and establishes the humble and meek.
Jesus gives us more reason to clap our hands and shout with joy.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, may Your kingdom come, may Your will be done here in this community, and may the people living here join in the celebration that You are King!