Advent Psalm reading for December 7, 8, 9, & 10: Psalm 85
So far, I have looked at Psalm 85 as a Korahite psalm with roots in the Northern part of Israel. The Psalm begins in lament and then moves toward repentance and recognizing God’s compassionate justice. Then, I read Psalm 85 alongside Hosea 6 and saw some similarities in the Hebrew poetry in the acknowledgment of God’s abundant generosity. Today, I am reflecting on Psalm 85 in connection with one of the New Testament liturgical readings.
In the spirit of staying with biblical poetry, I wish to consider this passage from 1 Peter 3: 10-12:
Those who desire to love life
and to see good days,
let them keep their tongues from evil
and their lips from speaking deceit;
let them turn away from evil and do good;
let them seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. (NRSV)
This encouragement is in the middle of an exposition about suffering for the sake of goodness. This chapter concludes with a message bout being mindful, generous of heart, and polite when answering for one’s beliefs and faith. What an important reminder for all of us who seek steadiness in our faith, even as we engage in a world that falls short of the truth and justice that should prevail.
Coming Up on An Advent Psalm Reflection
Tomorrow, I will wrap up my advent reflections about Psalm 85.
This entire series and a link to the readings on the Advent Psalm Reflections page.
Dr. Erica Mongé-Greer, holding a PhD in Divinity from the University of Aberdeen, is a distinguished researcher and educator specializing in Biblical Ethics, Mythopoeia, and Resistance Theory. Her work focuses on justice in ancient religious texts, notably reinterpreting Psalm 82’s ethics in the Hebrew Bible, with her findings currently under peer review.
In addition to her academic research, Dr. Mongé-Greer is an experienced University instructor, having taught various biblical studies courses. Her teaching philosophy integrates theoretical discussions with practical insights, promoting an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.
Her ongoing projects include a book on religious themes in the series Battlestar Galactica and further research in biblical ethics, showcasing her dedication to interdisciplinary studies that blend religion with contemporary issues.