Psalm 42

Psalm 42 begins a new section of the Psalms. All but four of Psalms 1-41 are attributed to David. We are not sure of the specific identity of the psalmist in this next section. In the first section God was addressed as Yahweh, LORD, which is the intimate, personal name for God. In this next section, God is addressed as Elohim, which in the traditional Jewish view is the name of God as the Creator and Judge of the universe. (Because of the repetition of the refrain 42:5 in verse 11 and also in 43:5, as well as repetition of themes, Psalms 42 and 43 are generally considered to have been one psalm originally.)

The change in the name for God is indicative of the many perspectives from which we can view or understand God’s nature. There is the ethical view, which understands God as the Creator and giver of life. This view calls forth the acknowledgement of our responsibility to be good stewards of God’s creation, and that as all people are created by God, we have a responsibility to treat all people with respect. As God is the giver of life, our response to receiving God’s gifts is to generously share God’s gifts with others.

There is also a more personal and intimate perspective in our approach to God. Together, the names Elohim and Yahweh can lead us to affirm with Saint Augustine that we have a God shaped vacuum within, and we will not be at peace until we allow God to fill the vacuum. Psalm 42 reminds me that God created me with the needs to be loved, accepted and valued, and only God can fulfill these needs.

Not surprisingly, many others have been so reminded, not the least of which is Marty Nystrom, the author of the well-known praise and worship song, As the Deer. In a beautiful God moment, as I sat in my study this morning reading Psalm 42, this song was playing on my iPod.

As the deer panteth for the water
    So my soul longeth after You
You alone are my heart's desire
    And I long to worship You

You alone are my strength, my shield
    To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
    And I long to worship You

Yes and Amen!

Sē’lah

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What word or phrase in today’s reading of the Psalms

 attracts your attention?

Reflect on that word or phrase.

What insights come to you?

How does this passage touch your life today?

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Reading for June 13, 2012                   Psalm 43