An Invitation to Joy and Trust in God

The Psalms are liturgical poems that form part of the Hebrew Bible. Many Christians and Jews consider them a source of inspiration and spiritual comfort.

Psalm 118 is one of the most popular and quoted in Christian liturgy and prayer. Verse 24, in particular, is often used as an invitation to joy and trust in God. In this article, we explore the meaning of this psalm and its applicability to our life of faith.

Verse 24 of Psalms 118 is a magnificent proclamation of gratitude to God for the new day He offers us. The verse reads: "This is the day that the Lord has made: let us rejoice and be glad in it!

This verse is a reminder of God's goodness and infinite love for us. It invites us to celebrate each day as a gift from God, with gratitude and joy. No matter what trials we face, we can find refuge in God's goodness and providence. We are invited not to let the obstacles get us down, but rather to focus on God's grace that surrounds us every day.

Verse 25 is also a prayer for salvation and prosperity. The prayer reads: "O LORD, grant salvation! O LORD, give prosperity!". This prayer is a reminder that only God can save us and give us prosperity. We can pray for these blessings, but we can't get them on our own. This prayer invites us to trust in God and to be humble before Him. We must surrender to His will and grace to receive the blessing of His providence.

Verse 26 is a blessing for the one who comes in the name of the Lord. The prayer says: "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! We bless you from the house of the Lord". This prayer is often quoted in churches during Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:9). It is a proclamation of God's sovereignty and His blessing on those who follow Him. We are blessed when we follow God and live according to His will. We are invited to live in God's blessing by remaining faithful to Him and following His commandments.

Finally, verse 27 is a proclamation of God's light that enlightens us. The verse says: "The Lord is God, and he enlightens us. Bind the victim with bands, bring him to the horns of the altar". This verse is an invitation to remain faithful to God, even if it means sacrifice and hardship. Just as the prodigal son was enlightened when he returned to his father's house (Luke 15:11-32), we too can be enlightened when we repent and return to God. This verse is also a proclamation of God's grace that saves and enlightens us in difficult times.

Psalm 118 is a reminder of God's goodness and infinite love for us. Verses 24-27 are an invitation to God's joy, trust, blessing and light in difficult times. As Christians, these verses are a source of comfort and inspiration to help us remain faithful to God and live in His blessing.

May each day be a source of joy and gladness for us, and may we remain faithful to the grace of God that enlightens us in difficult times.

Amen! Shalom!