Reflection from Morning Prayer: Psalm 90
Introduction: Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, is a contemplative masterpiece offering insights into life's challenges and its fleeting essence. In this blog post, we delve into three key themes from Psalm 90—Reality, Reason, and Wisdom—and explore their profound relevance as we usher in a new year.
Reality - Embracing Life's Transience: Moses opens Psalm 90 by urging us to confront the brevity of life. Even if we were to live a thousand years, it would be a mere whisper in the vast expanse of eternity. This psalm encourages us to acknowledge the transient nature of our existence, recognizing that life is akin to a fleeting mist.
Reason - Grasping the Consequences of Sin: Within verses 7–11, Moses guides us to comprehend that the ephemerality of life is not arbitrary but intricately linked to the consequences of sin—echoing the curse pronounced in Genesis 3. The psalm underscores God's righteous wrath against ungodliness, prompting a thoughtful examination of our lives and a recognition that hidden sins cannot escape divine scrutiny.
Wisdom - Learning the Art of Numbering Our Days: In verse 12, Moses seeks divine wisdom, praying for the ability to "number our days." The deliberate use of the word "teach" emphasizes that living purposefully and wisely is a cultivated skill. As we embark on a new year, there is a call to pause, reflect on the past, and evaluate how we've utilized our time, resources, and relationships in alignment with God's ways.
Finding Hope Amidst Divine Judgment: Despite acknowledging God's judgment, Moses finds hope in verses 13–17. His plea for mercy, rejoicing in the steadfast love of the Lord, and anticipating divine favor are grounded in the unbreakable commitment of God's love. This steadfast love, even in the face of judgment, becomes the anchor of hope for redemption.
As we step into a new year, let Psalm 90 be a compass for intentional living. Rather than a call to recklessness, numbering our days invites us to align our lives with God's vision and purpose. Let us celebrate the unwavering hope found in God's promises, allowing it to shape our choices, interactions, and priorities throughout the coming year.
In the spirit of reflection, take a moment to ponder your daily decisions, relationships, and responses to challenges. Arm yourself with a notebook and pen, engage in introspection, and seek alignment with God's vision and purpose. May this new year be characterized by intentional living and a profound connection with the eternal hope that transcends life's fleeting moments.