Advent, Day 23

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Psalm 61
Karen Mason

Some people don’t expect much from God. The writer of Psalm 61 expected a great deal from God: that God would hear, listen, lead, protect and answer his petitions. Even though this lament psalm was born out of adversity, it exudes hope and expectation.

This lament begins with a protest (“Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer.” vs. 1). It continues with petitions: for protection (“I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.” vs. 4) and for long life for the king (“May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever.” vs. 7). It ends with a promise of praise (“Then will I ever sing praise to your name.” vs. 8). This promise is grounded in God’s past protection (“For you have been my refuge.” vs. 3) and God’s covenant faithfulness (“You have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.” vs. 5).

Advent is the season when we remember the first coming of Christ and expectantly prepare for the second advent of our victorious king. We anticipate his arrival because we long for deliverance from our laments. We look for the time when he will wipe every tear from our eyes, when God himself will dwell with us again, when he will be enthroned forever and ever. Our great expectations are grounded in his first coming when he so tenderly loved us, hopeless sinners. So we say, “Come, Lord Jesus!” Come ever so quickly.

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