Read Psalm 119:129-136 129Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them. 130The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. 131I open my mouth and pant, because I long for your commandments. 132Turn to me and be gracious to me, as is your way with those who love your name. 133Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. 134Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep your precepts. 135Make your face shine upon your servant, and teach me your statutes. 136My eyes shed streams of tears, because people do not keep your law.
The poetry of verse 130 is not simply meant to be beautiful, it’s also meant to teach us about the progressive revelation of God’s word. God’s word unfolds before us, it opens up, like a blooming rose, or a rising sun. Any of us who have read the Bible more than one time know that each time it is opened it gives a little bit more to the reader. New insights are gleaned. New treasures discovered.
This is not only true in the individual reader’s experience, but for the book itself. God did not tell us everything in Genesis. As the scriptures were added to over time, so was the light of God’s unfolding. More of reality was illuminated until the final light appeared. Jesus, the final revelation of God. The risen sun, giving light to all who would take the time to open their eyes to God’s word.
In Luke 24 Jesus would open up or unfold the scriptures on the road to Emmaus. The hearts of the disciples burned within them as their eyes were opened to see Christ in all of scripture, the law, the prophets, and the psalms. What about you? Has the scripture been unfolding for you? Or do you assume that because you’ve read it once or twice you’ve gotten all there is to get out of it? I hope not. To live is Christ desires to see all of Christ in all of scripture. And that is a process. An unfolding. A rising sun revealing more and more light with each view.
Prayer. Jesus, as you unfold before me through your word unfold in my heart and mind too. Amen.
To Live is Christ 