How delightful it was to worship with you on Sunday! "Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!" (Ps. 133:1). I could not help but contemplate the beauty and attractiveness of the church set against the darkness of the times.
Psalm 45 is a majestic wedding song of a Davidic king in fulfillment of God’s covenant with David (2 Sam. 7). The groom/king is described in his majesty and splendor. “In your majesty ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness.” (v4). As the king prepares to take his bride unto himself, the attributes of his reign are lauded. The imagery of this Psalm is quoted by the writer of Hebrews (Heb.1:8-9), and it is prefaced by God speaking to the Son. The Son of God was also a son of David.
This Son will rule, and His kingdom is one of truth, goodness, righteousness, and beauty. He rules now among His people with truth, in contrast to a cultural movement that affirms only what one feels. He rules with goodness, juxtaposed to the current conventional wisdom that it is now acceptable to oppress one who disagrees with you. He rules in righteousness, in distinction to many who “call evil good and good evil” (Isa. 5:20). Righteousness is the scepter of His kingdom, and His throne is forever and forever (v6). He is the One who makes everything beautiful – properly fitting together – in its time (Ecc. 3:11).
The groom/king’s bride is described as beautiful as she is brought to him. She is at his right hand, but “since He is your Lord, bow to him.” Then “With joy and gladness they are led along as they enter the palace of the king” (v15). This imagery of the majestic king taking a subject as his bride is replete through Scripture. It is a portrait of hope and great joy.
Sing this song, making melody in your hearts to the Lord (click here to listen/sing along with the lyric video): “Arise, shine, for your light has come! Arise, shine for the risen Son. Lift your eyes, we are His radiant bride. Arise, O Church, arise!”1 May you live joyfully in your union with Christ the King! May we champion the cause of truth, meekness, and righteousness as citizens of His kingdom spreading the fragrance of Christ.
1 “O Church Arise, Arise Shine” by Getty and Townend. Copyright © 2005 Thankyou Music
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