Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“But the Lord sits enthroned for ever,
he has established his throne for judgement.”
NL Daily Devotion for Monday, June 10, 2024
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
What kind of kingdom are we praying for when we say “Your kingdom come?” If we look honestly at it, the image of a “king” is (a) male and (b) has all sorts of human characteristics of men with absolute power (hint: most of these aren’t good). Here in Psalm 9, we are given the image of a king who sits on a throne and sits in judgment over everyone. Is this a comforting image? Do we see it as someone who executes justice on behalf of those who are oppressed and in need? Does it lead us to self-righteousness, where we see it as someone who will allow us to finally “get even” with everyone we don’t like or don’t agree with? Or does it kick up fear of being judged by God and not measuring up? Of being punished? Even eternally???
How we pray the prayer Jesus taught us depends on how we envision God’s kingdom, or God’s “reign” if you prefer a term that isn’t necessarily masculine. We can hardly be genuine in our exhortation for God’s kingdom to come and will be done on earth if we’re afraid of what that will mean for us. The truth is that we can’t know for sure, but if we dig into scripture and discernment, we might get comfort and clarity that will allow us to ask this of God from a genuine place. Perhaps this would be a rich topic of conversation in a Bible study group, or among friends in your congregation.
How do I envision the reign of God? Do I really want it to come to pass?
