January 28, 2012 – Psalms 100 – 102

100 – It seems odd for us to think about being thankful to be of service to others.  We are to be thankful when we are served, it is not as natural the other way around.  But that is what we are called to.  We are to be servants of God, to do His will, and to walk about in constant thanksgiving for the privilege to do so.  Just seems a little off kilter for us today.

101 – This is a prayer that seeks God’s help to be perfect in the way of integrity and to guard against all those that are not of integrity.  The daily readings, at least the last couple of weeks, have been about David and Saul and their relationship.  I always thought it was interesting that David is seen as one after God’s heart.  We also believe that many of the Psalms were written by David.  Maybe this one was written early on in his career, but towards the end, especially with Bathsheba, he did not have that integrity.  But the goal is not to be perfect, because that cannot happen.  The goal is to strive for perfection and seek forgiveness when we fail, which we will.  I guess the story of Bathsheba does show us that, because David does seek forgiveness. 

102 – Since the topic of David and Bathsheba came to mind, this Psalm has the feel of something David might have prayed after that sinful act.  God, through Nathan, calls him out, and he ask for forgiveness, and God gives it to him, but not without consequences.  This prayer could have come while David’s son is dying because of David’s sin.