September 7, 2022

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Psalm 23:6

Worship is the goal, or end purpose, of the Christian life.  The answer to the oft quoted question, which begins the Westminster Catechisms, states that the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.   That being said, it is fitting that this Psalm, which so accurately outlines the motions of a God-centered life in a fallen world, would conclude on such a climactic note.  If we were to imagine an opposite conclusion to this Psalm, it would conclude at a point of self-reliance and religious obligation: “Ask not what your God can do for you - ask what you can do for your God.” Perhaps, you are a bit like me and think that eventually, through years of bumbling, you might actually find the end of God’s mercy.  

Maybe, in your heart of hearts, you have read this verse today and think that God’s goodness is something that is grudgingly extended because of how “good" you were yesterday.  Allow me to pop that bubble - the word used for “follow” in most English translations actually means “pursue," or even “chase.”  Take some time to read Philippians 2:5-11 consider that God has pursued his people in the life, death and resurrection of his Son Jesus Christ, consider the rest from “holding it together” or checking the moral boxes this creates. If you have leaned the hopes of your heart against the gracious work of Jesus - you can be sure that you will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

-Matt Allhands