Old Testament reading: Psalm 68-69
“They hated me without a cause” (John 15:25). This quote from Jesus was written by David in Psalm 69:4. Psalm 69 is a beautiful song filled with imagery of Jesus. In verses 1-2, David pictures himself as drowning, sinking as one stuck in the mire. Jesus’ death was agonizing and slow. Worse still, He was fully aware of His surroundings yet powerless to change them. David speaks of his weariness from crying and his thirst (v 3). Jesus undoubtedly cried unceasingly as He was scourged (John 19:1). From the cross, Jesus cried, “I thirst!” (John 19:28). David recalled his zeal for God’s house (v 9). This same quote was attributed to our Lord after He cleansed the temple (John 2:17). David spoke of bearing the reproach of those who reproached God. Paul attributed this very verse to Jesus in Romans 15:3. David spoke of being given gall for his food and vinegar to satisfy his thirst (v 21). Both of these images present themselves in the account of the crucifixion (cf Matt 27:34, 48). Finally, David notes that his only hope and prayer is in God and His deliverance. As He expired, Jesus directed His words to His Father as He breathed His last, “Father, into your hands I commit My spirit” (Luke 23:46). As we read these beautiful songs, let us not forget to see Jesus as we also identify with the Psalmist.
New Testament reading: John 10-11
“Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:17-18). This may seem contradictory to the thought of powerlessness I expressed in today’s Old Testament thought, but let me explain. Jesus held possession over His spirit, and truth be told, He possessed the power to end His ordeal at any time. But He couldn’t do it and carry out the will of the Father. Jesus knew that His agony was according to the will of God and was the only means by which mankind would have the hope of salvation. Thus, He relinquished His power over His life and spirit, that He might “always do those things that please Him” (John 8:28-29).
Leave a Reply