Psalm 82 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 82 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment:
Verse 2"How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Selah
Verse 3Give justice to the weak and the orphan; maintain the right of the lowly and the destitute.
Verse 4Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked."
Verse 5They have neither knowledge nor understanding, they walk around in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken.
Verse 6I say, "You are gods, children of the Most High, all of you;
Verse 7nevertheless, you shall die like mortals, and fall like any prince."
Verse 8Rise up, O God, judge the earth; for all the nations belong to you!
Devotion
Many years ago, while taking an Urban Studies course, I remember visiting places in downtown Denver that served the homeless, the vulnerable, and the poor. While initially scary, I quickly came to realize we are all the same except for my privilege of having resources and support. It is challenging for those in need of assistance to wait in line for someone to help. So much waiting.
As I write this, Congress has approved a budget bill that seems to give extra benefits to the wealthy, while withholding needed resources from those who are marginalized. Yet, in this Psalm 82, titled in the NRSVue version, “A Plea for Justice,” God advocates for us to respond with justice and mercy for the needy. I recently became involved with an organization that serves BIPOC young mothers. They provide housing, meals, childcare, and life skills—all things that these women long for. Just like all of us.
Prayer
God of justice and mercy, give us the courage to advocate for those who have challenging life situations. And bless those that live in fear and without hope. Let them know of your love. Amen.
Interested in digging deeper into today’s text?
Read more here.