Psalm 35 -- Derek: Meditating on the Way

Psalm 35 is a passionate lament that contains a strong contrast between human injustice and divine righteousness. Though the Psalmist empathetically prayed and fasted for those who seek to do the Psalmist harm when they were weak and needy, now they devise evil and hate him without cause. The Psalmist prays for justice according to God's righteousness. Those who live in comfort are uncomfortable with such prayers (imprecations), but the oppressed understand them, and the righteous stand with the oppression in prayer with them. Jesus knew this Psalm, quoted it about himself in John 15:26. Jesus saw himself as the Psalmist who suffered at the hands of the powerful and sought God's vindication. It is the story of his cross and resurrection. It is the story of Israel in which Jesus participates and brings to fulfillment. Those oppressed by the powers are delivered by the righteousness of God.