WHO MAY ABIDE?

Sunday, October 7, 2018

WHO MAY ABIDE?

Ps 15:1

15 Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?

           You may be aware that you are a traveler in life. The landscape is constantly changing as you move steadily toward your destination. You are also surely aware that travel is a wearying thing. There are hills to climb and valleys to descend and more potholes than anyone needs. We long for a place to camp.

           The Psalmist asked, “O LORD, who may stay in your tent?” The image here is describing a traveler who turns aside from the road to seek hospitality; like at a roadside rest stop. “Lord, who may rest in Your presence?”

The next question is: “Who may dwell in thy holy hill?” This speaks of permanent residence. Note that the first question is about abiding while the next question is about dwelling. One asks “can I spend the night” while the other asks permission to move in. The rest of the Psalm lists the qualifications.

Personal integrity -- “The one who walks with integrity, does what is righteous, and speaks the truth within his heart.”

Relational Faithfulness – “The one who does not slander with his tongue, do evil to a friend, or bring disgrace on his neighbor.”

Moral Strength – “The one who despises those rejected by God but honors those who fear the LORD.”

Sacrificial Dedication – “The one who makes a promise and does not break it, even though he is hurt by it.”

Financial Honesty – “The one who does not collect interest on a loan or take a bribe against an innocent person.”

Dear Lord, I am weary of traveling and need a place to stop and rest in your presence. Though I am unworthy, open your tent flap and allow me to enter. Change my destination so that my journey ends at your Holy Hill. AMEN