This psalm of laments goes beyond prophetic, bordering on eerie. It cuts through time and space, recording the words of Christ on the cross and providing a vivid picture of the crucifixion.
Verses 1-5
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? – Psalm 22:1
“Elí, Elí, lemá sabachtháni?” that is, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” – Matthew 27:46
Apart from verse 1, the opening paragraph sounds like a familiar poem from David’s pen. He speaks of crying out to God who is holy despite the seeming silence in response to David’s pain. He reflects upon his forefathers and the rescue God provided them when they needed Him, reminding himself that God will do the same for him.
Verses 6-8
The next passage still speaks of David’s pain while reminding us of the cross. Scorned by men, mocked by the crowd. In the movies, this is where the screen would fade from David’s writing desk to Golgatha.
He relies on the Lord; let Him rescue Him; let the Lord deliver him, since He takes pleasure in Him. – Psalm 22:8
Verses 9-10
Verses 9 and 10 remind me of the cries of Job in his distress. Both men faithful servants of the Lord despite much grief in their lives. It seems the greatest of God’s servants are brought the lowest. Yet another reason why comfort in this life is not a worthy goal to pursue.
Verse 11
This single verse is true to David’s needs, but speaks once again of darkness falling over the cross as the payment for sin was made.
Alone. In Pain. Our Savior suffered much for us. For me.
Verses 12-18
Again, vivid imagery from the cross is painted in these verses. Surrounded by Gentile “dogs.” Every bone disjointed. His heart melting like wax. The thirst, the pierced hands and feet, and the dividing of his garments.
Was David recording a vision? If so, did he understand what he saw? This was written hundreds of years before Rome would come to power and control their empire through fear of crucifixion. Yet, there is no mistaking what scene David is recording.
Verses 19-21
David repeats his oft prayed cry for deliverance. He pleads with God to rescue him from his attackers.
Verses 22-24
David commits his praise to the Lord, calling on all who fear Yahweh to do the same. He rejoices that God listens to those who cry to Him for help.
Verses 25-26
These verses continue David’s praise and his determination to fulfill his vows before the Lord.
Verses 27-31
In closing, David speeds through time to the last days when every knee will bow before the Lord—”even the one who cannot preserve his life.” One day, every child born will know of Jesus. What a glorious day that will be!
This post is Day 22 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the first post, Psalm 1: The Wise and the Wicked, click here. The introduction to the series can be found here.
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