Psalm 2 The Psalm appointed for Christmas Day is Psalm 2.
Compare and contrast the structure of Psalm 2 to that of Psalm 1.
Psalm 2 is the most frequently quoted psalm in the New
Testament. It fits together in an interesting way with Psalm 1 to introduce the
Book of Psalms. Psalm 1 begins with, “How
blessed”; Psalm 2 ends with the same word (in Hebrew). Psalm 1 ends with a
threat; Psalm 2 begins with a threat. In Psalm 1, the godly man meditates on
God’s law; in Psalm 2, the wicked meditates (NASB = “devising,” NIV = “plot”;
same Hebrew word) on how to cast off the rule of God. In Psalm 1 the theme is
the contrast between the righteous and the wicked person; in Psalm 2 the theme
is the contrast between the rebellion of wicked rulers and nations and the rule
of God’s righteous Messiah. Psalm 1 consists of two stanzas and six verses.
Psalm 2 is twice as long, consisting of four stanzas and 12 verses.[2]
The Psalm is appropriate for the celebration of
Christmas as we see that the Lord’s Messiah will enter time and space to make
all things right.
Even though the world scene looks as if God has been
on an extended vacation, David shows us that the LORD’s plans have not failed
and shall not fail. Everything is under His control. In the fullness of time;
and exactly the right time Jesus entered time and space to be our Savior. Rest
in His timing, be assured of His care for you.
Collect for
Psalm 2: Lord God, you gave the peoples of the world to be the inheritance of
your Son; you crowned him as king of Zion, your holy city, and gave him your
Church as his bride. As he proclaims the way of your eternal kingdom, may we
serve him faithfully, and so know the royal power of your Son, Jesus Christ our
Lord. [3]
[1] Joy to the World, copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
[3] Collect for Psalm 2, For All the Saints, A Prayer Book for and By the Church, © 1995 The American Lutheran Publicity Bureau, Delhi, NY
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