Psalm 78: 3-4, 23-25, 54

The responsorial psalm for this week describes the practice of handing stories down from generation to generation, a practice found in every society.

This is no trivial matter; relaying the formative events and origins of a people is essential for preserving their cultural and historical identity.

What we have heard and know, and what our fathers have declared to us, we will declare to the generation to come 

The reference to “what we have heard know” points to the collective memory and wisdom of the community, passed down through generations.

the glorious deeds of the LORD and his strength and the wonders that he wrought.

The essence of Israel’s recital of history is the proclamation of the glorious deeds of the LORD.

Chief among these glorious deeds are the events surrounding their deliverance from Egypt, their sojourn in the wilderness, and their entry into the Promised Land.

The specific verses selected for today’s responsorial psalm focus on God’s provision of manna and the people’s entrance into the Promised Land.

He commanded the skies above and opened the doors of heaven; he rained manna upon them for food and gave them heavenly bread. 

The psalmist relays the manna tradition (Exodus 16:4) while pointing out God’s authority over nature.

Unlike the deities of the ancient world, who were seen as controlling only specific aspects of the cosmos, the God of Israel has dominion over the entire natural order. This declaration by the psalmist underscores this complete sovereignty: God not only governs the heavens but also actively shapes the destiny of his people.

The God of Israel is supreme and sovereign over all.

Man ate the bread of angels, food he sent them in abundance. 

The psalmist continues describing God’s provision, calling manna “the bread of angels.”

Not only is God able to provide, he provides abundantly. This abundance showcases God’s generosity and the fulfillment of his promises to care for his people.

And he brought them to his holy land, to the mountains his right hand had won.

God’s guidance and provision culminates in the establishment of the Israelites in the Holy Land — the land of Canaan which had been promised to their ancestors.

The reference to “his right hand” symbolizes God’s strength and sovereignty in accomplishing this promise.

Reciting these wonders reminds the people of who they have become because of what they have experienced. It also challenges them to live in the present in a way that upholds this legacy so they can hand down their noble identity to the next generation.