The Emptiness of Power

Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying, “Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us.” He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision. Then he will speak to them in his wrath, and terrify them in his fury, saying, “As for me, I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill.” (Psalm 2:1-6 ESV).

       

You know I can never resist going back to the Smoky Mountains for a perfect example of God’s beauty in creation. This picture was taken some time ago in Cade’s Cove. It was mid-afternoon and the riding stable must have let the horses out to pasture. The backdrop seemed to be perfect as we made our way around the scenic loop. My mind always wanders a bit when I am in this place. I often wonder what life was like being surrounded by such beauty every day? Did the settlers of this valley nestled in the Smokies appreciate the unique place they had come to call home? Or, did the enormous hardships of life crowd out the beauty?  

 

The Scripture is very clear in the declaration that God is the creator of our universe and everything in it. It’s interesting how often that declaration comes under attack. Some people suggest that the universe happened entirely by chance. Creation is not an accident. God designed the universe and created us with purpose. This attack is not new. Our reading today makes mention of it when he calls the position one of vanity.

 

To think that God is somehow shaken by these empty attacks is incredulous. The psalmist says, “The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. He rebukes them in his anger.” Heaven has a response to what we believe. He goes on to warn, “Be warned, you rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.”

 

I find it interesting also that the warning is directed toward the “rulers”. Perhaps that’s because with more position comes more power. As we get more accustomed to power it is easy believe we are indestructible. Nothing could be further from the truth. With more power comes more responsibility, not less. Even when we think we may have escaped the consequences of our behavior, we must remember that we have not yet faced the final judgment of THE King. Justice will be served and responsibility will be placed finally. We live in a world that seems to have forgotten that truth. I would suggest that you spend a moment or two in your special place (even if it is only through pictures) and celebrate the King of Zion who is now seated on His throne!