Scripture: Psalm
2:6-12
Some people feel that Psalms 1 and 2 form a whole message
that runs through the Psalter. Psalm 1 deals with the blessed, showing that he
meditates on God’s Word. Psalm 2 delves into the meditations (ie the plotting
in v. 1) of the nations who are outside of God’s covenant. They form a contrast
between the righteous and the wicked. This portion of Psalm 2 introduces the
Lord’s chosen King, identifies him as his Son, and places him in authority over
all things. It also threatens punishment to those who disobey this King. This
psalm is appropriate for Transfiguration as it identifies the King with the
words, “You are my Son,” which is echoed in God’s words to the disciples
regarding Jesus.
Teaching
The world is accountable to God. It is accountable to his
chosen King, Jesus Christ. This is an unpopular message. Yet God put his King
on Zion and all people must deal with this reality. One can plot and seek to
overthrow the King, in which case such a one would be dashed in pieces, or one
can be wise and take refuge in this King, in which case that one will find the
King is merciful and compassionate desiring to protect his people.
The admonition to, “Kiss the Son,” seems strange to modern
readers. Perhaps, though, you have seen a movie where a servant kisses the king’s
ring, or the pope’s. The idea here is that the person is acknowledging the King’s
authority and humbling him or herself in the King’s presence. This is certainly
right for us to do in our relationship to our heavenly King Jesus.
Life
How do you relate to Jesus’ authority over you? Do you chafe
at it? Do you try to play the game of living under his protection while
rejecting the parts of his Word that you don’t like or don’t agree with? The
Scriptures admonish us repeatedly to be humble in our relationship with God.
Indeed this is a sign of both wisdom and faith. Examine your life. Is there
sin, which is rebellion, in your life? Confess it. Kiss the King, and find him
forgiving.
All who take refuge in Jesus are blessed. Jesus is the kind
of King who defends his people. He gives his life so that we may live. We are
blessed (happy is another translation of the original text) when we take refuge
in him and receive his mercy and grace. What are you fighting, what sin
torments you, what guilt steals your joy, what pain breaks your heart? Take
refuge in Jesus and you will find that his blessing is upon you.
Prayer
Use Psalm 2:6-12 to guide you prayer today. This might be a
little challenging. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you insight into your
relationship with the King. Confess the times that you have been more
rebellious than wise. Thank God for his chosen King and for his divine protection
for his people, seen so clearly in the cross of Christ. Pray for wisdom, for the
ability to serve Jesus, for joy at his salvation, for humility, and for the
blessings that come from taking refuge in him. Let the harsh words of the psalm
move you to compassion for those who do not submit to King Jesus, and pray for
the Spirit to work in them to draw them to the wisdom that comes by faith.
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