Psalm 33: 4-5, 18-20, 22

This week’s responsorial psalm is from Psalm 33, a hymn in which the just are invited to praise God, who by a mere word created the universe.

Upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the Lord the earth is full.

Israel’s faith in God is rooted in the truth of his word, the faithfulness of his works, the justice of his covenant, and the steadfastness of his love (hesed, translated here as “kindness of the Lord”). Everything else flows from these convictions.

See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, 

The focus shifts from God’s universal care to his personal attention toward those who fear him and hope in his steadfast love. To “fear” the Lord in the biblical sense is to revere and respect God, submitting to his authority. “Hope in his steadfast love” refers to trusting in God’s covenantal loyalty and mercy.

Essentially, God watches over and protects those who place their trust in him, showing that his relationship with humanity is reciprocal — God cares for those who acknowledge him with faith and reverence.

to deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine.

God’s protection and provision extend beyond spiritual blessings to physical needs, highlighting His ability to preserve life.

Our soul waits for the LORD, who is our help and our shield.

This verse portrays a posture of patient trust in the Lord.

May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us who have put our hope in you.

The psalm ends with a return to the theme of covenant kindness (hesed), which the psalmist prays will remain with the people.

This prayer serves as both a petition and a confession of trust, linking God’s love to the people’s expectation and hope in him.