Restore Us Again, O God of Our Salvation

This meditation is based on a passage for October 18, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Psalm 85

Reflection and Question: I believe this is the first time I have reflected upon a psalm for a second time. That makes sense. This poem of hope and assurance is in my inner canon as one of the Scripture passages to which I return again and again for God’s word to me. This psalm also holds the point of a short scene at the end of the movie, Babette’s Feast, in which this psalm has such a central place. In frosty Denmark, one sister remarks, “Perhaps there will be no snow this year.” Outside the window, single snowflakes begin to fall. Upon what does your hope rest; what revives you?

Prayer: Will you prolong your anger to all generations?
Will you not revive us again, so that your people may rejoice in you?
Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation. Amen.