Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost: Psalm, Psalm 119:129-136

Psalm 119:129-136

The longest chapter in the Bible is pretty well-known. And its subject matter is appropriate to the length. Psalm 119 is a rejoicing in the law of the LORD. And all facets of the law are expounded. Better here to think law equals teaching, or the full declaration of the Almighty.

The very last verse in our reading is stunning. Truly. Think on this: 

My eyes shed streams of tears,

because people do not keep your law” (Ps. 119:136)

Every time I read that verse I am struck by it. I think the safe assumption after reading Psalm 119 is that the author is a lover of God’s law. Of course, he readily admits that he fails again and again in keeping it. But he treasures the truth that his God is a God full of mercy and ready to forgive. It is good and right that when we fail to heed the teaching of the Lord, we should weep. But the writer here says that of others. The ESV translates it, “because people do not keep your law.” People. The people. People at large. They don’t keep your law. And I believe the inference is not a judgmental one, but rather that the writer's heart is broken because people are missing out on such immense treasures.

Yes, I am always struck by that statement. Here’s a parting question: do I treasure the teaching of the Lord so much that it breaks my heart that others do not know, understand, or obey it? Ponder and pray.