The Gettysburg Address was delivered on November 19, 1863. Today we remember the wise words of President Lincoln, but on that day another man was the primary speaker. Edward Everett was a diplomat, educator, and preacher from Massachusetts. He was a celebrity in his own right. His much-anticipated speech contained about 14,000 words. This was followed in the ceremony by Abraham Lincoln’s 271-word speech. In just about ten sentences Lincoln communicated so much more than Everett’s lengthy discourse. His words are remembered today for their dignity and truth, reminding us that good things come in small packages.
Psalm 117 is the shortest in the Bible, containing only two verses. In many Bible versions this little psalm sits in the absolute center of the whole book. It reads, “Praise the LORD, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples! For His merciful kindness is great toward us, And the truth of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD!”
The author, date, and occasion of writing for this psalm are all unknown. Some have guessed it to be a psalm which would be sung at the beginning or end of the priests’ service in the temple. At any rate, this tiny psalm has large lessons for us today. As God’s character is lifted up, we are reminded of the some of the greatest themes of Scripture.
First, we notice that all people can be one. The call for non-Jews to join in the worship of God is noteworthy (Rom 15:9-12). Long before Cornelius in Acts 10, God’s plan is prophesied. All nations flow into the mountain of the Lord’s house (Isa 2:2). God has blessed all nations of the earth through Abraham’s seed (Gen 12:1-3; 22:18; Gal 3:15-18, 26-29). The God of Israel is the God of all!
Second, we notice how God’s kindness is great. It is incredible to see our omnipotent God show such care toward man (Psa 8:3-4). God displays this great love toward us in the sacrifice of Jesus (Rom 5:8). He was not required to do this, but rather chose to extend this mercy and grace. By communicating “the word of His grace” he offers us opportunity to be counted faithful (Acts 14:3; Eph 2:8-10; Titus 2:11-12).
Third, we notice that God’s Word is eternal. The Word is the foundation of our hope, the truth which endures to all generations (Psa 100:5; Heb 6:19). Even while our physical existence is so fragile, we hold on to the incorruptible seed which is God’s Word (1 Pet 1:22-25).
Fourth, we notice how the psalm begins and ends with a call to worship. Everything covered in this short psalm motivates our worship of God and brings us joy in serving Him. Truly good things come in small packages!
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