Psalm 67
Jewish tradition teaches that this particular psalm was first introduced by Moses, and then repeated by David, as one to be especially remembered and studied by God’s people. To accentuate this belief, tradition also teaches that David etched the words of this psalm onto his shield in the shape of the seven-branched menorah. Interestingly, there are seven verses in this psalm corresponding to the seven branches of the menorah. The idea seesm to be that the words of this psalm were to be an inspiration to him and to others just as the light of the Holy Menorah gave illumination and insight to the people of Israel.
It is also interesting that, as written in Hebrew, this psalm contains forty-nine words which, in Jewish thinking, corresponds to the forty-nine days (seven weeks) between Passover and Pentecost. Consequently, it is customary to recite this psalm during that time each year so that we might recall the journey that led God’s people from Egypt to Mount Sinai in order to encounter the Creator and to receive His instructions. Of course, it was at Sinai that the Lord did, indeed, cause His face to shine upon the people who were assembled before Him.
Finally, this psalm is recited at the beginning of each month on the Hebrew calendar as a reminder of our declared hope and confidence in Him. It is to reaffirm our desire that His Presence will be constant in our life, and that He will work in us and through us to accomplish His Will in the earth. If the words of this composition are truly in our heart, we can fulfill the mission to be a light to the nations. Just as the light of the Menorah pierced the darkness and gave illumination to God’s people, we can be that for others when we embrace the essence of this prayer.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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