DAY 6: Psalm 72 the king who brings justice
REFLECTION
Psalm 72 depicts the world as it should be: a world under the righteous rule of God’s chosen king. Here, the poor are defended, the weak protected, and the oppressed lifted up. Justice and righteousness are not abstract ideals but lived realities that bring flourishing to the land and joy to the people.
No king in Israel ever fulfilled this vision, though David and Solomon foreshadowed it imperfectly. The psalm ultimately points to Jesus, the true King who brings justice not only to Israel but to the whole world. When Jesus stands in the synagogue of Nazareth and reads Isaiah 61 (Luke 4:14–21), He announces that this long-awaited kingdom has arrived in Him. He comes not only to forgive sins but to renew creation, restore the broken, and reconcile all things to God.
For followers of Jesus, this psalm challenges us to join His kingdom work. Holiness and justice belong together. A heart shaped by grace cannot be indifferent to suffering, poverty, or injustice.
Likewise, we serve not from guilt or activism for its own sake but from the love of a King whose compassion moved Him to touch lepers, welcome children, defend the weak, and proclaim good news to the poor.
Psalm 72 invites us to look at our world with kingdom eyes. To long for Christ’s justice, pray for His renewal, and offer our hands and voices to serve those who live on the margins.
GOSPEL READING
Luke 4:14–21: (NIV)
14Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread through the whole countryside. 15 He was teaching in their synagogues, and everyone praised him.
16 He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, 17 and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:
18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
20 Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
Where do you see the need for the justice and compassion of Christ in your town or neighbourhood?
What small act of mercy or service could you offer today that reflects the heart of the King?
How might your prayers expand to include places and people who suffer injustice?
Think of a nation where Christians are being persecuted. Pray for those Christians to be strengthened by Jesus.
PRACTICING SURRENDER
Choose one quiet act of mercy. Help someone in need, give generously, or offer encouragement to someone who is overlooked. Do it without announcing it. Offer it to Christ as worship.
The Lord's Prayer
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours
now and forever.
Amen.
