I will sing of the steadfast love of the LORD, forever;
with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations.
For I said, “Steadfast love will be built up forever;
in the heavens you will establish your faithfulness.”
You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one;
I have sworn to David my servant:
‘I will establish your offspring forever,
and build your throne for all generations.’”
Of old you spoke in a vision to your godly one, and said:
“I have granted help to one who is mighty;
I have exalted one chosen from the people.
I have found David, my servant;
with my holy oil I have anointed him,
so that my hand shall be established with him;
my arm also shall strengthen him.
The enemy shall not outwit him;
the wicked shall not humble him.
I will crush his foes before him
and strike down those who hate him.
My faithfulness and my steadfast love shall be with him,
and in my name shall his horn be exalted.
I will set his hand on the sea
and his right hand on the rivers.
He shall cry to me, ‘You are my Father,
my God, and the Rock of my salvation.’”
Psalm 89:1–4, 19–26
This psalm authorship in the Hebrew Bible is attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite. The title “Ezrahite” likely denotes Ethan’s lineage or origin, possibly associating him with the clan of Zerah, a descendant of Judah. Despite the lack of specific biographical information, Ethan’s contribution to the Psalter suggests a role as a wise and contemplative figure within the ancient Israelite community. Psalm 89, stands out for its emphasis on God’s covenant with David, reflecting a deep theological understanding and a sense of communal identity. In addition, within the title of the psalm we also find the term maskil; it suggests that the psalm is intended for instruction or contemplation, emphasizing its didactic nature.
The psalmist, in the opening verses, exclaims with joy and gratitude, praising the Lord for His steadfast love and faithfulness. This sets the tone for the comprehensive theme of Advent, a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the fulfillment of divine promises.
During the season of Advent within the Christian faith we often hear the expression “Come and Cheer.” These three simple words together consolidate the essence of Advent, and they invite us to rejoice in the midst of waiting, to find comfort in the promises of God even in uncertain times. Our Lord Jesus Christ once said to his disciples, “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV). This firm statement provides hope for the present and future because God’s promises are yes, and amen.
Biblical history highlights the focus of this season of how Israel’s messiah, Immanuel (God with us), came once humbly to this world in the person of Jesus more than two thousand years ago. He came as the hope of this world. He did not come as people were expecting him, as a powerful warrior with armor, a sword, a horse, and a massive army behind him to deliver Israel from political oppression. Instead, He came as a meek lamb ready to be sacrificed for his people, demonstrating his steadfast love and faithfulness to them, just like the psalmist remarked in his psalm writings. That same Messiah is who we joyfully remember and celebrate during this season and who also promised to come again to make all things new.
The psalmist’s words, echoing through the centuries, resonate in our hearts as we embrace the season with anticipation, celebrating the fulfillment of ancient prophecies in the birth of Jesus Christ.
As we reflect on Psalm 89 during Advent, I invite you to have a spiritual journey of introspection and hope reflecting on how God has demonstrated his steadfast love and faithfulness in your life.
Charley Peña is a chaplain of discipleship for Campus Ministries at Hope College.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.comThe “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™