Psalm 31:15-16

“Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your steadfast love.” vs. 16

It’s very likely that the psalmist, in the course of temple worship, had heard the Aaronic Benediction many times. It was the blessing that, according to the scriptures, had first been pronounced over the Israelites by Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first high priest. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”  

Those were memorable words, and we’ve heard them again and again as the pronouncement of the pastor at the end of worship. Many have reported that this benediction has had a powerful impact on them, that it’s the high point of the entire service. And even though there are many benedictions that have found their way into the liturgy, some with more contemporary images and phrases, there is an almost magical quality to the original. It touches our hearts in a powerful way. 

The phrase having to do with the Lord’s face shining on us seems to have particular power. There’s mystery in it, and yet in the mystery we get a clear sense of God’s love, and an image of a smiling Lord. No wonder the psalmist remembered it! It just feels so good to know that we are loved beyond measure by the Lord of the Universe!

Thought for the Day: What does the benediction mean to me?