For the LORD builds up Zion; he appears in his glory;
This prayer belongs to the faithful in Babylon's captivity, when deliverance drew near. They lament their afflictions, plead for the temple's restoration, and recall God's promises to steady their hope. The prophet shaped it as a form of prayer when the seventy years were nearly finished and comfort was about to break forth.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 102:1-28
When the Lord shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his glory. As kings display their skill and power and wealth in the erection of their capitals, so would the Lord reveal the splendour of his attributes in the restoration of Zion, and so will he now glorify himself in the edification of his church.
My days vanish like a shadow, but You sit enthroned forever, Your remembrance burning through all generations. A man who loves God better than himself takes comfort here: though I die and my name sink into dust, Your church's interests are safe in hands that never fail, and deliverance for Zion must come.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 102:12-22