Daily Reading 11-22-16
Psalm 24 New Living Translation (NLT)
Human beings are stewards of God’s world. Some people may not see it that way or even believe it, but that does not change the truth. We are to love God, love people, and take care of God’s creation. Let me repeat that same sentence but elaborate: We are to love God with surrendered lives as worshipers who follow His Word, love people by sharing Christ’s love and message of repentance and salvation, and take care of God’s world by respecting and maintaining his order as well as standing in God’s strength against evil.
This psalm of David’s not only points to the King of Glory-Jesus Christ-and his first coming to set humans free from the power of sin (cross); it also points to Christ’s future entry into the New Jerusalem-his second coming when he will reign and rule God’s world exactly as the Father commanded. The work of Christ is to clean us up and renew a right relationship with God, so we can share in the blessing and rule with him!
Psalm 24 A psalm of David.
1
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.
The world and all its people belong to him.
2
For he laid the earth’s foundation on the seas
and built it on the ocean depths.
3
Who may climb the mountain of the Lord?
Who may stand in his holy place?
4
Only those whose hands and hearts are pure,
who do not worship idols
and never tell lies.
5
They will receive the Lord’s blessing
and have a right relationship with God their savior.
6
Such people may seek you
and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob.[a] Interlude
7
Open up, ancient gates!
Open up, ancient doors,
and let the King of glory enter.
8
Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty;
the Lord, invincible in battle.
9
Open up, ancient gates!
Open up, ancient doors,
and let the King of glory enter.
10
Who is the King of glory?
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies-
he is the King of glory. Interlude
Prayer: Lord, you came into the world, but the world did not recognize you. Help me to be a reflection of your love, so others will see you in me and get ready for your second coming. I love you. I love your people. I love your world and the order you have placed over it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.