Psalm 63

In this psalm, David says, “I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory.” (vs 2) For some reason, that made me think of Christmas. Isn’t this a perfect description of the Incarnation? When Christ came here in the flesh, we did indeed see Him in His “sanctuary” (His body, His temple) and witnessed His power and glory.

Having said that, I think it’s instructive that David uses the past tense in this psalm: “I have seen you in your sanctuary…” But he began by saying, “O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.” (vs 1)

Unfortunately, this is still the state of things in our churches. We have seen God in His power and glory… yet we are constantly thirsting for Him in this weary land where there is no water. Though we have seen Him in the past, we do not make a regular habit of drinking Him in during our worship.

But just as surely as God showed up 2,000 years ago, He is still anxious to show up today! And when we invite Him into our midst and turn our attention to Him, He will bless us with His presence. David mentions those blessings, too:

Your unfailing love is better than life itself. (vs 3)
You satisfy me more than the richest feast. (vs 5)

So, no matter what you’re already planning to put on your Christmas list this year, make sure you don’t miss out on the very best gift of all! Christmas reminds us that God shows up, and He’s ready again to give the gift of Himself to you today.