Read Psalm 61:1-8. 1Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer; 2from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I, 3for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy. 4Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings! 5For you, O God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name. 6Prolong the life of the king; may his years endure to all generations! 7May he be enthroned forever before God; appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him! 8So will I ever sing praises to your name, as I perform my vows day after day.
David is far from home, depressed, and exhausted, a situation every pilgrim can relate to on some level. The king’s petition that follows is so bold and so beautiful, it’s likely many of us have never prayed a prayer like this.
Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.
Let me dwell in your tent forever.
Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings.
These are not merely requests for an escape from danger, but for entrance into the very presence of God. For David that meant making it back home to the Rock of Jerusalem, the Tabernacle tent of God, and the shelter of the winged Mercy Seat atop the Ark of the Covenant.
To live is Christ is the spiritual realization of this prayer to live face to face with God. In Christ God’s spiritual presence is as assured as his physical presence was for David in that tent. Not just someday, but today we have a heavenly heritage in Christ. Our lives are prolonged into an eternal purpose by our union with his life. We sit enthroned in glory at the right hand of Jesus. Our Savior’s new covenant love and faithfulness watch over us day by day.
Our response? Simple praise.
Prayer. Jesus, you are the Rock that is higher than I. Bring my heart into your presence every moment of every day through my simple praise.
To Live is Christ 