Today’s readings.. (Exodus 17,18), (Psalm 72), (Mark 5)
                                                                                                                                      
     The Psalms are divided into 5 books, and today we complete the second, today’s Psalm (72) ending with the words, “the prayers of David, the son of Jesse are ended.”   There are more Psalms attributed to David later on.  The Psalms (the Hymn Book of Israel) are not compiled in the order they were written and at the head of today’s Psalm it says “of (or for) Solomon”
     It is probable that David wrote this near the end of his life, probably his last Psalm, as Solomon was ascending the throne.  But David, under inspiration, very quickly extends his vision to that of his greater son’s reign, that of Jesus.  This Psalm is an incredible picture of the Kingdom of God on earth when Jesus reigns.  As we read it we cannot help but contrast it with the kingdoms of men as they are now! As man grows more godless the contrast is becoming more extreme.
     Whenever we listen to the news., it is largely an account of trouble and strife – and also moves to pass more  laws that contravene God’s laws allowing for behaviour that God has decreed to be evil. In contrast David’s prayer for his son is – “May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice” (v.2)
      May our prayers to God be, in taking words from this Psalm  “… may he defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the children of the needy…  in his days may the righteous flourish, and peace abound … may he have dominion from sea to sea … to the ends of the earth … may all kings fall down before him, all nations serve him.  May his name endure forever … all nations call him blessed … may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen” [v.2,4,7,8,17,19]
     When we say “AMEN” let us say it with fervent conviction and desire.