God Lifts Up Those Who Are Bowed Down

This meditation is based on a passage for April 4, 2011 in the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Psalm 145

Reflection and Question: This is a hymn of praise to God as King. I know there are some who choose not to dwell on passages like this one because it exalts kingship in a way that is both patriarchal and dictatorial. But I see different contours in these verses. I see praise for God’s goodness, righteousness, grace, mercy and love. I see God’s awesome glory touching those who are falling, raising up those who are bowed down. I see that God is just and kind, hearing those who call, and then saving them. So with this poet, I will sing praise and bless God’s Name forever. What aspects of God prompt your praise?

Prayer: O Heart of my heart, envelop me!
When I speak, let it be of blessing and gratitude;
Let your glory within me shine out into the world!
(from Psalm 145 in Nan Merrill, Psalms for Praying, p. 303)