In a few days, we will mark the 1st anniversary of the 7th October attack on Israeli civilians, the taking of the hostages and so to our present situation with over 40,000 killed in Gaza and now a war in Lebanon. A few months ago, I brought to this column the words of the Anglican Archdeacon of Jerusalem, when asked if he had any hope. He replied that in the city that witnessed the resurrection, there was always hope; it was harder to be optimistic. Those words came back to me a few days ago, when the lectionary featured Psalm 87. The second half of this psalm is as follows;
“I will mention Egypt and Babylon among those who know Me – along with Philistia, Tyre, and Ethiopia – when I say, ‘This one was born in Zion.’ ”
And it will be said of Zion: “This one and that one were born in her, and the Most High Himself will establish her.”
The LORD will record in the register of the peoples: “This one was born in Zion.”
Singers and pipers will proclaim, “All my springs of joy are in You.”
The Old Testament is sometimes portrayed as the record of vengeful God who revels in smitings. However, as this psalm shows, there is another side, as the writer recognises how the God of Israel is also the God of all peoples. Perhaps this gives some more grounds for hope as this anniversary comes upon us.
Rev David Poyner