Blessing from God's Word

129 Your laws are wonderful.
No wonder I obey them!
130 The teaching of your word gives light,
so even the simple can understand.
131 I pant with expectation,
longing for your commands.
132 Come and show me your mercy,
as you do for all who love your name.
133 Guide my steps by your word,
so I will not be overcome by evil.
134 Ransom me from the oppression of evil people;
then I can obey your commandments.
135 Look upon me with love;
teach me your decrees.
136 Rivers of tears gush from my eyes
because people disobey your instructions.

The words “Make your face shine on your servant” echo the blessing found in Numbers 6:24-26. There God explains how to give his people a blessing, saying: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Here God conveys to his people that he sees them and promises to love and protect them.

In our reading for today, the psalmist sees the light of God’s Word, and his passion for God grows, leading to a greater thirst for God’s Word. As he reads and meditates, ponders and absorbs, the writer’s understanding of God’s love, mercy, and compassion deepens and his longing for God increases. The intensity of his passion for God leads him even to pant for God’s Word!

Another important thing to note here is that the psalmist calls himself God’s servant. Connecting God’s blessing with service, the psalmist reminds us that blessings don’t stop when they land on our doorstep. God blesses us—his servants—so that we can serve and be a blessing to the people around us.

Go ahead and ask God for his blessing, because God wants to bless you. He also wants you to be keenly attentive to his Word and to actively serve in his world.

Direct our footsteps, Lord, according to your Word, and let no sin rule over us. Amen.