Readings:
2 Samuel 11:1-15; Psalm 145:10-19; Ephesians 3:14-end; John 6:1-21

Collect:
Gracious Father, revive your Church in our day
and make her holy, strong and faithful, for your glory’s sake
in Jeus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Reflection - The Exaltation of God
Introduction The chosen Psalm for this week is one of the most treasured psalms in the Book of Psalms, attributed to King David who reigned as king of Israel from approximately 1010 to 970 BCE, and his psalms have been a source of inspiration and worship for millennia. Psalm 145 is often regarded as David's last recorded psalm, capturing his mature reflections on the greatness and goodness of God. It is categorised as a psalm of praise, specifically a hymn, and it stands out for its comprehensive and universal declaration of God's attributes. The psalm reflects a historical context of a united Israel under David's rule, a time marked by military victories, establishment of Jerusalem as the capital, and significant religious reforms, including the bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.

Verses 10-19 of Psalm 145 encapsulate a central portion of this hymn, focusing on universal praise, God's eternal kingdom, His provision, righteousness, and compassion. These verses invite us to join in the chorus of creation, acknowledging God's supreme authority and benevolent care. 

Verses 10-12: Universal Praise and the Declaration of God's Kingdom In these verses, the psalmist emphasises that every aspect of creation, from the smallest creatures to the most faithful believers, participates in praising God. This universal praise signifies that everything God has made reflects His glory. The faithful, in particular, are called to extol God, highlighting His might and the splendour of His kingdom. This act of declaring God’s glory is both a privilege and a responsibility. The faithful tell of God’s mighty acts and kingdom so that all people might come to know and reverence Him. This is an invitation to evangelism, to share the wondrous works of God with others, spreading His fame throughout the earth.

Verses 13-14: God's Everlasting Kingdom and His Support for the Needy The psalmist underscores the eternal nature of God’s kingdom. Unlike human kingdoms that rise and fall, God's reign is everlasting, spanning all generations. This eternal dominion assures believers of the unchanging nature of God's rule, providing a foundation of stability and hope. God’s trustworthiness in fulfilling His promises and His faithfulness in all His deeds offer a profound sense of security. This is especially comforting in times of uncertainty, reminding us that God is constant and reliable.

Moreover, God’s compassion is vividly portrayed in His care for the vulnerable. He upholds all who fall and lifts up those who are bowed down. This imagery paints a picture of God as a loving, supportive parent who is always ready to help His children in their time of need. It highlights God’s attentiveness to the struggles of His people and His desire to restore and uplift them.

Verses 15-16: God's Provision Here, the psalmist focuses on God’s role as the provider. All living creatures look to God for sustenance, and He faithfully provides for their needs at the proper time. The phrase “you open your hand” suggests a gesture of generosity and abundance. God’s provision is not just minimal; it is bountiful, satisfying the desires of every living thing. This generous provision encourages us to trust in God’s timing and abundance, knowing that He is attentive to our needs and desires. It also calls us to live with gratitude, recognising the countless ways in which God sustains us daily.

Verses 17-19: God's Righteousness and Nearness The psalmist concludes by affirming God’s righteousness 

and faithfulness. God's ways are just and His deeds are faithful, providing a moral and ethical foundation for believers. This righteousness assures us that God’s actions are always in line with His holy character. God’s nearness to those who call on Him in truth emphasise His intimate relationship with His people. To call on God “in truth” suggests a genuine, sincere seeking of His presence and this nearness is not limited by physical distance but is a relational closeness, ensuring that God is always accessible to us when we reach out to Him.

The promise that God fulfills the desires of those who fear Him and hears their cries of need reassures us that our prayers are not in vain; God listens and acts to save us. This response is not based on merit but on God's grace and love, encouraging us to approach Him with confidence and trust.

Conclusion Psalm 145:10-19 provides a comprehensive view of God's majesty, faithfulness, and compassion. These verses call us to participate in the universal praise of God, to declare His mighty acts, and to trust in His eternal and righteous rule. They remind us of God’s generous provision and His attentive care for those in need. Reflecting on these truths deepens our understanding of God's character and inspires us to live in gratitude, trust, and worship. It is a powerful affirmation of God's intimate involvement in the world and His unwavering support for His creation.

Adedayo Adebiyi