4th Sunday, Advent 2017

Psalm 89
Luke 1:26-38

Some royal psalms, of which 89 is an example, are thought to be written by David, while others refer to the promise of a new Davidic king. Isaiah also hopes for the restoration of Israel after political and military defeat through such a king. Hebrew bible passages such as these are used extensively in the Gospels—Jesus is named as this new Davidic-Savior King.

Isaiah and the psalm-singers reveal a King-God who longs for peace and love among and between all nations and people. Their history, however, also revealed to them a Lord who was a Warrior King. El Shaddai, the God of Power and Might, destroyed those who harm His chosen people. We often struggle to reconcile Old Testament violence and killing, revenge and vindication with a New Testament Prince of Peace, but scripture reveals to us Lord God is both- and.

In referring to themselves as His Chosen People, the Israelites indicated directly their belief the Lord God preferred and favored them over other people and nations. El Shaddai defends, protects and battles for them, and in turn, they are right in trusting, loving and remaining loyal to Him. The context of the violence is the excessive attention and love he showers upon His people.

I do not condone or celebrate Holy Wars or the violence in the Hebrew Bible, however, there is an invaluable confidence and security in the protection of such a King. While I do not have any enemies, per se, I find solace in a Lord who loves me so much He would take my part over another. I would be naive and self-deceptive if I did not recognize my childlike need for the comforting protection of El Shaddai. Just as we cannot see darkness without light, we cannot know The Prince of Peace without awareness and appreciation of our Warrior King Lord as well.

Journal Questions:

What are my perceptions of the Warrior-Protector King God? In what ways am I comforted by the these characteristics of the Lord’s? How does this idea dis-comfort me?
When have I found solace and rest after spending time with the Prince of Peace? When I have found strength and reassurance after spending time with El Shaddai?

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