TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 16 JUNE
June 16, 2025
FEAST OF SAINT EMILY DE VIALAR – 17th JUNE
June 17, 2025
1
In your strength the king rejoices, O Lord,
and in your help how greatly he exults!
2
You have given him his heart’s desire
and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah
3
For you meet him with rich blessings;
you set a crown of fine gold on his head.
4
He asked you for life; you gave it to him—
length of days forever and ever.
5
His glory is great through your help;
splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
6
You bestow on him blessings forever;
you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
7
For the king trusts in the Lord,
and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved.
8
Your hand will find out all your enemies;
your right hand will find out those who hate you.
9
You will make them like a fiery furnace
when you appear.
The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath,
and fire will consume them.
10
You will destroy their offspring from the earth
and their children from among humankind.
11
If they plan evil against you,
if they devise mischief, they will not succeed.
12
For you will put them to flight;
you will aim at their faces with your bows.
13
Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength!
We will sing and praise your power.Psalm 21, a powerful expression of gratitude, holds a significant place within the Book of Psalms. It’s important to note that this article refers to Psalm 21 according to the Hebrew (Masoretic) numbering. In the Greek Septuagint and Latin Vulgate, it’s Psalm 20. Attributed to David, this psalm, beginning “The king shall joy in thy strength,” resonates deeply in both Jewish and Christian traditions.
In your strength the king rejoices, O Lord,
and in your help how greatly he exults!
2
You have given him his heart’s desire
and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah
3
For you meet him with rich blessings;
you set a crown of fine gold on his head.
4
He asked you for life; you gave it to him—
length of days forever and ever.
5
His glory is great through your help;
splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
6
You bestow on him blessings forever;
you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
7
For the king trusts in the Lord,
and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved.
8
Your hand will find out all your enemies;
your right hand will find out those who hate you.
9
You will make them like a fiery furnace
when you appear.
The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath,
and fire will consume them.
10
You will destroy their offspring from the earth
and their children from among humankind.
11
If they plan evil against you,
if they devise mischief, they will not succeed.
12
For you will put them to flight;
you will aim at their faces with your bows.
13
Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength!
We will sing and praise your power.Psalm 21, a powerful expression of gratitude, holds a significant place within the Book of Psalms. It’s important to note that this article refers to Psalm 21 according to the Hebrew (Masoretic) numbering. In the Greek Septuagint and Latin Vulgate, it’s Psalm 20. Attributed to David, this psalm, beginning “The king shall joy in thy strength,” resonates deeply in both Jewish and Christian traditions.
- Themes of Kingship and Victory: Psalm 21 is closely linked to the preceding psalm, both being liturgical pieces with the king as a central figure. It’s primarily a psalm of thanksgiving, focusing on the king, who in the Old Testament often symbolizes the moral standing of the entire kingdom.
- Messianic Interpretations: Theologians like John Calvin have connected this psalm to a lineage of rulers leading to the Messiah, identifying him as Jesus. Others see both messianic and eschatological themes, viewing it as relating to “Christ the King.”
- Context and Occasion: Commentators propose various scenarios for its origin, like before or after a battle, a king’s coronation, or an annual celebration. The New Revised Standard Version labels it as “thanksgiving for victory.”
- Liturgical Use: Its power is reflected in its liturgical use. In the Church of England’s Book of Common Prayer, Psalm 21 is read on the morning of the fourth day of the month and at Mattins on Ascension Day.
- Musical Legacy: Psalm 21 has inspired many musical settings, including Handel’s Coronation anthem, “The King Shall Rejoice,” demonstrating its enduring impact on music and worship
