Crowning Grace
Scripture Reading — Psalm 8
You made [us] a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned [us] with glory and honor.
Psalm 8:5
As a member of the human race made in God’s image, I’m really something!
I’m just a little lower than the heavenly beings. I have glory and honor. I’m a ruler over God’s works. Everything is under my feet. I’m in charge of the whole zoo (flocks, herds, beasts, birds, fish)!
But before I become too proud, I need to answer some questions.
Who made me? Who made me a little lower than the heavenly beings? Who crowned me with glory and honor? Who made me ruler over God’s works? Who put everything under my feet? Who made me caretaker of the zoo?
I have earned neither position nor appointment. I have no prior experience, no resume, no references or recommendations. I don’t even have seniority. All I can say is that I was born (and I didn’t even choose that).
Psalm 8:5-8 must be read in the context of the identical first and last verses: ”O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.”
I guess that puts me in my place. Though I occupy an amazingly high place, I must remember that it is a God-given place. I may indeed be crowned, but it is only by grace. This kind of grace makes me ask, “Who am I that you are mindful of me?”
God of all grace, we rejoice today in your majestic name and humbly thank you for crowning us with a portion of your honor and glory. Guide us to serve you faithfully. Amen.
About the author — Dale Vander Veen
Dale Vander Veen is a retired Christian Reformed pastor who with his wife, Edith, has ministered in California, Washington, and Michigan. They have three married children and six grandchildren. He currently writes a daily e-mail series of devotions.
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