the one you struck

Psalm 69:22-28 (JDV)

Psalm 69:22 Let their table set before them be a snare, and let it be a trap for their allies.
Psalm 69:23 Let their eyes grow too dim to see, and let their hips continually quake.
Psalm 69:24 Pour out your rage on them, and let your burning anger overtake them.
Psalm 69:25 Make their camp desolate; may no one live in their tents.
Psalm 69:26 You see, they persecute the one you struck and talk about the pain of those you wounded.
Psalm 69:27 Charge them with crime on top of crime; do not let them share in your righteousness.
Psalm 69:28 Let them be erased from the book of life and not be recorded with the righteous.

the one you struck

David’s experience led to his seeing himself as the one Yahveh struck, and he prays that God brings justice to his persecutors. But his words also foresee a future Messiah who would be struck because of God’s plan. Those who persecute him and his followers would suffer and die permanently. They will be erased from the book of life.

Unbeliever, are you prepared for that fate. Is your obstinate rebellion against Christ and his gospel worth your life? Come to Jesus today! He wants to give you life. The alternative is permanent death.

Lord, draw people to yourself by our witness. We know your justice will demand that many be erased from your book of life, but help us to rescue as many as we can from that fate.