Psalm 110 portrays the Lord giving strength to troops for righteous battle. The violent war imagery in verses 3-7 is disquieting. And yet, the Psalm begins (Verse 1) with the assurance that God designates a place at God’s “right hand” while justice is carried out. Christians have interpreted this to be a reference to Christ, who sits at the “right hand of God the father Almighty.”
Psalm 110 gives us a vision of hope in a broken and fearful world. In Christ, oppressors will receive their comeuppance and become “footstools” for those they have oppressed. It may be an abused woman who finds strength in seeing the abuser chastened and brought to justice; or, workers who have been mistreated finally receiving fair working conditions from repentant employers; or, warring gangs and armies so chastised by the Holy Spirit that they will put down their weapons and beg for mercy from those whom they have afflicted. In the kingdom of God, human power structures are turned upside-down: the promise of the Gospel. Hallelujah!
Dear Lord, we give thanks that your righteousness is fierce! So often when we feel defeated or alone, our prayers are timid. Help us, Almighty God, to welcome the fire of your Holy Spirit that dares give us a greater vision for our lives, and the lives of your children around the world. Grant us victories in your name. Amen.
Donna Havrisko is pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
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