Monday, March 2, 2015

Asaph

Asaph has had twelve of the psalms in the Old Testament Psalter (Psalms 50 and 73-83) attributed to him. He was one of King David's chief musicians, appointed to play such instruments as lyres, harps, and cymbals (1 Chronicles 15). He later performed at the dedication of Solomon's Temple, according to 2 Chronicles 5:12.

The following translation of Psalm 75 comes from the new Passion Translation by Brian Simmons which first appeared in 2014. Other portions of scripture available in this translation at this point include John, Song of Songs, Hebrews and James.

Psalm 75 — A Cup in God's Hand

To the Pure and Shining One
Asaph's poetic song to the tune "Do Not Destroy"


God, our hearts spill over with praise to you!
We overflow with thanks, for your name is the "Near One."
All we want to talk about is your wonderful works!
And we hear your reply:
"When the time is ripe I will arise,
And I will judge the world with perfect righteousness!
Though I have set the earth firmly on its pillars
I will shake it until it totters and everyone's hearts will tremble."
--------------------------------------------Pause in his presence
God warns the proud, "Stop your arrogant boasting!"
And he warns the wicked,
"Don't think for a moment you can resist me!
Why would you speak with such stubborn pride?
Don't you dare raise your fist against me!"
This I know: the favor that brings promotion and power
Doesn't come from anywhere on earth,
For no one exalts a person but God, the true Judge of all.
He alone determines where favor rests.
He anoints one for greatness,
And brings another down to his knees.
A foaming cup filled with judgement mixed with fury,
Is in the hands of the Lord Jehovah,
Full to the brim and ready to run over.
He filled it up for the wicked and they will drink it,
Down to the very last drop!
But I will proclaim the victory of the God of Jacob.
My melodies of praise will make him known.
My praises will break the powers of wickedness
While the righteous will be promoted and become powerful!

Entry written by D.S. Martin. His latest poetry collection, Conspiracy of Light: Poems Inspired by the Legacy of C.S. Lewis, is available from Wipf & Stock as is his earlier award-winning collection, Poiema.