Psalms 123:2 - Homilies By R. Tuck

Watching for Divine favor and direction.

In the East orders are rarely given to an attendant in words, but commonly by signs. These are often so slight as to escape notice unless the eyes of the servants are kept fixed on the master or mistress. When waiting upon his master, the servant stands upon the farthest edge of the raised platform, having left his shoes at the door; his hands are folded, and rest upon the center of his girdle; and he watches closely every movement of his master, prompt to attend to all his wants, which are expressed by a nod or a sign. He fills his pipe and hands him his coffee; he sets his food before him, and it is his special duty to "pour water on his hands' to wash. Should he happen to be missing when wanted, his master will summon him by clapping his hands so effectually that the sound is heard throughout the house, especially as the doors and windows generally stand open (Lennep). Kimehi suggests that the cry for mercy intimates that the slave is regarded as out of the master's favor, and anxiously watching for signs of returning acceptance. The simile suggests that there should be a threefold spirit in our watching for and waiting upon God.

I. THE SPIRIT OF ATTENTION . There is a servant-work which is merely a listless and careless doing of what we are told to do. But that kind of service brings no credit to master or servant. There is a servant-work which involves the union of all our powers, and the active energy and interest of our minds. That service honors both master and servant. The man is alive. Vitality and vigor show themselves in attention.

II. THE SPIRIT OF OBEDIENCE . The point of obedience which may gain special illustration is its taking the servant beyond himself, and filling him with concern for the will and well-being of another, even his master. True service therefore becomes our finest training in unselfishness. It is constant help toward losing ourselves in the interest of another. And this at the call of high principle and the sense of duty. Unselfishness is a main foundation of noble character.

III. THE SPIRIT OF HUMILITY . A man may have to take a servant's place; and may keep his self-confidence while in it. A man may love to take a servant's place; then he expresses humility and dependence in it, and nourishes humility and dependence by it. This is sublimely true of our service to Christ.—R.T.