Saturday 23 May 2026

Psalm 52

Background
My wife, along with most who sing alto in church choirs, loves Singing the Faith 185 ‘Sing we the king who is coming to reign’, as it is one of the few hymns where they get to sing alone. Together with this reading today it is a celebration of the kingship of Christ and the eternal reign of God.

Several images show this eternal life.

'The river of life' in verse 1. The source is from the throne: the origins of eternal life come from God’s presence. The water is clear and pure which points to the holiness of the new heaven and earth. A river is in constant flow, which signifies God’s continuing grace and power.

'The tree of life' in verse 2. The first link here is to the tree of knowledge in Genesis 3. The fruit there leads to death, but here it is linked to life. A closer link is to the vision in Ezekiel 47:12 where there are trees on both sides of the river, and and the vision is more bountiful.

'Producing fruit each month' in verse 2. In both hemispheres, the growing season stops in the winter and many trees lose their leaves. In the new creation there will be no ‘deadtime’ rather there will always be life and abundance. God’s healing power will always bear fruit.

'His name will be on their foreheads' – verse 4. This is in clear contrast to the ‘mark of the beast’ Revelation 13:16-18, which represents allegiance to a corrupt world power. This mark indicates divine protection by God. The forehead signifies the mind and thoughts, and refers to loyalty and allegiance rather than a literal physical mark.

'There will be no more night' – verse 5. In many places night symbolises danger, sin, evil and sorrow. In contrast light ensures uninterrupted safety. The people will not need artificial light because God is their light.

Finally, no one in Preston Lancashire, can move far without seeing the image of the city, which is a lamb and represents Jesus Christ. Not all believers are so fortunate. Still, every believer could do well in holding this hope of new creation.

To Ponder:

• How does this passage help us to live in the present?
• How does the Christian live carrying the mark of Christ today?

Prayer
Gracious God, we look forward to the day when we will always see your perfect goodness. Make our hearts and lives ready for the perfect joy of life with you in the new ­heaven and new earth. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Paul Davis
Paul is a supernumerary presbyter in the North West of England.