Many scholars believe this is one of the oldest of the psalms. It is a hymn of worship and praise for the great things the Lord has done for Israel. Reading through this psalm, we can picture the escape from Egypt, the Red Sea, the 40 years in the wilderness. The Hebrew people have a hope for the future with God, based on the help in the past from God.
Think of a time in your life when you faced struggle or strife. Looking back, can you see where God gave you the strength or courage to face that challenge? What other gifts did God provide during that difficult time? How might reflecting on God’s gifts in the past shape the way you look at tomorrow’s challenges?
Join the people of Israel in this communal prayer: Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Amen.