Psalm 45 - Through all generations

Read: Psalm 45 vs 1-17

One of the words that has been in my mind, particularly over the last ten days or so, is the word ‘intense.’ There are stretches in the Psalms where things are very intense. Threatening news, tangible anxiety, the need for vigilance, and a sense of being cut off from others are themes that seem to be fill so much of the Psalmists’ field of vision. Many of the Psalms are written in very challenging and uncertain times. Living in the midst of this kind of intensity is tiring, draining, it can get to you.

Psalm 45 represents a break from the intensity of many of the previous Psalms. Yes this Psalm acknowledges the presence of enemies (vs 5) and reality of wickedness (vs 7) but the overall tone of this Psalm, the ‘theme’ (vs 1) is pleasant. The title tells us these words were originally written as a ‘wedding song’. The person getting married may well be the king himself (vs 1). Though this Psalm celebrates the king and his virtues it looks to a higher throne (vs 6), a throne that ‘will last for ever and ever’ (vs 6). Even the beauty of the king’s bride (vs 11) points forward in scripture to a picture of ‘a bride beautifully dressed for her husband’ (Revelation 21:2).  

In difficult and uncertain times one of the slowly accumulating sadnesses that we feel is the absence of celebrations, those things that normally break the intensity of life. When live sport stops there are no goals to celebrate, when social spaces shut there are no nights out with family or friends, when there are no holidays to plan, and indeed no weddings to attend life starts to feel different. Slowly, almost imperceptibly life becomes more intense. 

The Bible is a book that lifts our vision and stirs us with a story that ultimately ends in joyful celebration (Revelation 21:9-11). For now we get ready, for now we look forward. We have a lot to look forward to. Psalm 45 comes to us like an invitation. There is a day of ‘joy and gladness’ to come (vs 15). You are invited. Be sure to be getting ready!

Prayer: Father please help me in these intense days. May the thought of joining one day with you in joyful celebration be real to be and lift my heart today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.