Psalm 115; Luke 23:26-43

Psalm 115
All the glory should go to the name of the Lord and not to us. It's good to remember this because some little spot in all of us want approval and recognition and maybe thanks. All these are OK as long as we never detract from God's glory.

When the Gentiles at the time of the writing of this psalm would observe God's people, they didn't see any idols. They would ask "Where is your God?" The answer is that our God is in heaven, and He does as He wishes. At first glance, this comment about God's doing as He pleases may seem to say that He is arrogant and insensitive to people's needs. This is not the case. It means that He is a God who is sovereign over the affairs of men.

Then the psalmist contrasts this all-powerful, all-knowing, all-wise and sovereign God to the idols made with human hands. They have mouths but cannot speak; eyes but cannot see; ears but cannot hear, etc. Actually, they are impotent and worthless, and psalmist notes that the same is true of those that make the idols as well as those who worship them.

The psalmist then goes on to encourage everyone to trust the Lord, who is our helper and shield. He will bless all who fear Him, both great and lowly. Then, last of all, we are to praise Him--now and forever.

Luke 23:26-43
Jesus is coming upon the darkest hours of His ministry on earth, and yet we see He is showing compassion on those around Him. When He address the "Daughters of Jerusalem" in vv. 28-31, He is looking ahead to the destruction of that city and the suffering which attended it which came to pass in AD 70.

In v. 34, He utters those famous compassionate words, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."

And finally, He showed compassion and mercy to the criminal on the cross. One of the two criminals scoffed at Jesus, but the other confessed his sin, "We deserve to die for our crimes." And he believed Jesus, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom." He may not have known much theology, but he knew he was a sinner who needed a savior, and he believed Jesus could save him. And so He could! And Jesus replied, "I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise."