October 11 Daily Rhythms

Daily Readings

Morning
Psalm 22:12-15   

Many bulls encompass me; strong bulls of Bashan surround me; they open wide their mouths at me, like a ravening and roaring lion. I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast; my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death.

The Bulls from Bashan is a literary metaphor for the strength and aggression of the Psalmist’s (and looking forward to Christ on the cross – HIS) enemies. All the allusions in this Psalm point at the suffering of Jesus on the Cross in a remarkable way. Consider: The insight of David to write these things centuries before the invention of crucifixion and the stunning way he captured the specifics of this type of death. And now consider Jesus suffered this in order to share in the pain of of humanity and to redeem us. Praise and Thank the Lord.

Afternoon
Psalm 22:16-18   

For dogs encompass me a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.

Again, note the stunning accuracy of the story of Jesus own death. And think about the humiliation and suffering he endured. He did this in order to rescue for himself a people, among whom you are numbered. How can this shape your day?

Evening
Psalm 22:19-24

But you, O LORD, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid! Deliver my soul from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dog! Save me from the mouth of the lion! You have rescued me from the horns of the wild oxen! I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you: You who fear the LORD, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him, and stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel. For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried to him.

What has the Lord done for YOU? How has he rescued you? Where would you be today if not for the work of Jesus on your behalf? As you prepare tonight to rest in your bed, consider how the rescue God has wrought on your behalf can turn your heart more deeply toward him.