Psalm 117 is short but sweet. Like a chef who carefully reduces a sauce to concentrate its flavours, the Psalmist uses an economy of words to draw key theological insights into sharp focus.

He starts with the imperative to praise the Lord. This is not uncommon in the Psalms. What is surprising here is who it addressed to. It is not to an individual or to the Israelite nation, but to people of all the nations. While it’s true that Yahweh revealed himself uniquely and exclusively to the Israelites in the early stages of civilised history, this was only ever an avenue to the greater goal of bringing the whole world under the fold of his glory. The scope of God’s praise can’t be contained to just a portion of the world. If he is the Lord of all creation then it is proper that all creation should recognise him as such and rejoice accordingly.

But what reason does the Psalm give for such widespread praise? Verse 2 states it simply: because of his love towards us and his faithfulness which knows no end. His love is one thing. That it is directed towards us is another. That it will endure forever is yet another thing still.

The extent to which we’re to praise God parallels the extent of his love and faithfulness. They have no bounds. 1 Cor 13 famously says that “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy. It does not boast. It is not proud. It does not dishonour others. It is not self-seeking. It is not easily angered. It keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” While it might be nice to experience such love from other people in this world, the truth distilled in Psalm 117 is that God’s eternal love is directed towards us for our everlasting benefit.

Ultimately, the evidence of this truth is anchored in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It reveals to us that God’s love can’t be thwarted by death. He reaches into the grave, rescues us from it, and extends his eternal goodness to our souls forever.

Praise the Lord.