by Anastasia Rodgers

1 Give the king your justice, O God,
and your righteousness to a king’s son.
2 May he judge your people with righteousness,
and your poor with justice.
3 May the mountains yield prosperity for the people,
and the hills, in righteousness.
4 May he defend the cause of the poor of the people,
give deliverance to the needy,
and crush the oppressor.
5 May he live while the sun endures,
and as long as the moon, throughout all generations.
6 May he be like rain that falls on the mown grass,
like showers that water the earth.
7 In his days may righteousness flourish
and peace abound, until the moon is no more.
18 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
who alone does wondrous things.
19 Blessed be his glorious name forever;
may his glory fill the whole earth.
Amen and Amen.

–Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19

Throughout the year I look forward to what spring, summer, fall and winter each have to offer. As we grow, we experience many seasons of life. While some are more eventful than others, each season brings its own reason to look for God’s guidance.

This psalm is about a change in season from one king to another. It’s a prayerful plea that God’s blessings would continue. All people would be taken care of by their new king and by one another. Those who are oppressed may be defended and treated with justice. The earth may be rich with bountiful harvest.

As we continue in the season of Advent, begin a new journey, or allow for transition in seasons of our lives, may we continue to seek God’s guidance and look for ways God’s blessings can continue. May we feel called to serve our neighbors, support one another, and hope for a prosperous future.

Ask yourself: how can the promises of God be showered upon us like spring rain? Have I defended the oppressed and treated others with justice? How will I make this season one of hope as we expectantly wait for our King in the manger?