January 8
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PSALM 102
15 Nations will fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth will fear your glory.16 For the LORD builds up Zion; he appears in his glory;
17 he regards the prayer of the destitute and does not despise their prayer.
18 Let this be recorded for a generation to come,
so that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD:
19 that he looked down from his holy height; from heaven the LORD looked at the earth,
20 to hear the groans of the prisoners, to set free those who were doomed to die,
21 that they may declare in Zion the name of the LORD, and in Jerusalem his praise,
22 when peoples gather together, and kingdoms, to worship the LORD.
23 He has broken my strength in midcourse; he has shortened my days.
24 “O my God,” I say, “take me not away in the midst of my days—you whose years endure throughout all generations!”25 Of old you laid the foundation of the earth,
and the heavens are the work of your hands.26 They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will change them like a robe, and they will pass away,27 but you are the same, and your years have no end. 28 The children of your servants shall dwell secure; their offspring shall be established before
– Psalm 102:15-28
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PSALM 102 GOD REGARDS THE PRAYER OF THE DESTITUTE
A poem inspired by this psalm by ILMA
The Lord is gracious and full of mercy for the needy and poor
He doesn’t take for granted the prayers of the impoverished
He looks down from the heavens to meet their needs
He cares for his people and will never abandon them
The Lord establishes his people and all their children will have assurance
For the Lord builds up his chosen ones and gives them much nourishment
All you God’s people, gather together so you can give praise to a God who is faithful
Give him all the worship and adoration for he is always steadfast and loyal
The Lord is the same yesterday, today and forever
Raise him up in worship for he is worthy of praise; he is eternal.
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REFLECTION
• Why should Christians encourage the poor to constantly ask God in prayer?