Intro: This morning as I sit praying about our Scripture verses for today, I am suddenly both saddened AND hopeful in my soul. Both sets of feelings are valid. I have heard this state of human emotion being described as “bittersweet.” This passage has lead me to experience a bittersweet lesson of love.
Yesterday, we observed Valentines Day—a time when many people focus on romantic love, as well as sweet friendships. Expressing our love to endearing people is to be the focus of the observance. For a plethora of reasons, this holiday can be bittersweet for many people. And, in the midst of the celebration do we express love for the One who actually is Love?
In our passage today, the psalmist pens a song about the lack of love the world has for the Lover (Creator) of their souls who is the eternal Lord. In the first few verses, we gain an understanding about the world’s great need for Messiah and his established order, because the rulers of the world actually fight against God. However, their efforts to diminish God are revealed in time to be futile and foolish.
Sadly, even today our Creator’s sweet and perfect love is considered undesirable by much of His creation. His rule of love is rejected by the nations; God’s authority (Word) is seen as enslavement and something from which to be freed. But Hope comes for those who are called according to the name of the Lord. We love and live for him now as Ruler of our hearts and we pray knowing he has promised to come take to his rightful position as the ultimate Ruler of the world. Then, there will be no more confusion about who is really in power.
Psalm 2:1-3 NLT
Why are the nations so angry?
Why do they waste their time with futile plans?
2
The kings of the earth prepare for battle;
the rulers plot together
against the Lord
and against his anointed one.
3
“Let us break their chains,” they cry,
“and free ourselves from slavery to God.”
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your patience and mercy with all of creation. Holy Spirit, we must humble ourselves, before our arrogance leads us toward destruction. Help us to seek you and welcome you into every area of our human brokenness and rebellion. In Jesus’ name. Amen.