Psalm 85 offers lyrical language that seeks to express how
good things can be when God puts the world to rights. Forgiveness, the nearness
of salvation, and the descending of God’s own peace are ingredient to this
goodness. Indeed, “righteousness and
peace will kiss each other” (v. 10), a lovely image of well-being.
“Surely
God’s salvation is at hand,” intones the Psalmist. Often set to music, this ringing affirmation
offers encouragement to people who walk in darkness, at the edge of despair. To
proclaim the nearness of redemption amidst the brokenness of life is radical
faith.
During
these weeks before Christmas several of my friends (who will remain nameless!)
are rather hooked on the Hallmark Channel with its formulaic approach to making
sure Christmas arrives just right—with a blooming romance, chaste kisses, happy
children, not too troublesome pets, beautiful decorations, a church service,
and the requisite snow at the ending.
Many of us (I mean them) are enchanted by this aspirational vision of a
season laden with expectations. Only if
it were so simple; the challenges resolved in two hours.
Our
communities are troubled by racism, insularity, and great disparity between
rich and poor. Competing narratives
divide us, and our perspectival bias is hard to set aside. Consider the tragic events of Ferguson; will
that city experience the promised “steadfast love and faithfulness” envisioned
by the Psalmist? Yes, if we will
participate with God in the mending of the world. If Christians do not live in hope, we have
abandoned our charism.
The
promises of Psalm 85 come in the mist of current distress and recall the
goodness of God. God’s pathway of
righteousness (v. 13) will not be deterred forever, even though the promise of
peace seems far off. Despite all, Israel
believes that “the Lord will give what is good, and our land will yield is
increase” (v. 12).
This
communal prayer of lament and petition acknowledges that God is ever mindful of
the people, even when God’s anger is kindled by waywardness. Anger is a sign of deep connection and care,
yet mercy is God’s ultimate word to the beloved people.
As we
prepare to welcome the coming of Christ once again, we yearn for the vision of
harmony brought about by God’s approaching glory. It is drawing near.
Molly T.
Marshall
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