Psalm 103:1-8 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 103:1-8 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Verse 2Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits-
Verse 3who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,
Verse 4who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
Verse 5who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Verse 6The Lord works vindication and justice for all who are oppressed.
Verse 7He made known his ways to Moses, his acts to the people of Israel.
Verse 8The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
Devotion
There are two scribbled reminders next to Psalm 103 in my bible. One reads “Remembering Psalm.” Psalm 103 is generally considered to be about thanksgiving, but the connection between thanksgiving and remembering is strong. The psalmist, not wanting to forget specific acts of God’s love in the midst of unnamed suffering, makes a list: the Lord forgives, heals, redeems, crowns, satisfies, renews, works, and makes known. The list turns into a testimonial song of praise and gratitude.
The other scribbled reminder reads “2nd Article.” It refers to the second article of the Apostles Creed and how God became known to the world through Jesus Christ. It reminds us that the psalmist’s list refers both to God’s character and God’s action - in other words, God’s integrity. What God promised to do will be and has been done. The benefits of Christ’s death and resurrection are healing, redemption, forgiveness, justice and love.
Prayer
Gracious God, thank you for your steadfast love and mercy. May our lives always testify to your love. Amen.