Preaching The Lectionary Psalms for Cycles A, B, C
The opening verse of this psalm echoes the blessing of Aaron found in Numbers 6:24-26: "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace." The presence of the blessing in this psalm signals a theme that will be expanded in the remaining verses. The priestly blessing celebrates the presence of God and what that presence means to God's people -- and to others!