Oil of Gladness

“You anoint my head with oil”

(Psalm 23:5)

Reflection:
Oil was used to anoint people for a number of reasons. It was, and still is, used in healing ministries. James teaches

“Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord” (James 5:14)

Isaiah prophesied that one of the ministries of the Messiah would be

“to bestow on them … the oil of gladness instead of mourning” (Isaiah 61:3)

Samuel was instructed to anoint David as the next King of Israel

“So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came upon David in power.” (1 Samuel 16:13)

In all instances it is seen as a sign of blessing – whether of healing, favour or honour. In the psalm it would have elements of each one. The Shepherd checking the health of His sheep would look to heal them wherever there was a need. In terms of relationship God looks with favour on His children and wishes to bless them with His love and His joy. In terms of ministry God blesses and anoints us for the tasks to which He has raised us and gifted us. David knows he has been greatly blessed in his life and likens it to God having anointed His head with the oil of favour, healing and honour.

In all cases it is ‘an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace.’ God as our Father, Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, the Holy Spirit as our Comforter and Guide, wish to bless us – not only where we have a need but from the depths of their love as well.

Response:
Ask for and look to identify His blessings.

Prayer:

Lord God You have blessed me and do bless me. Please help me to be aware of these blessings and to treasure them as David did. Amen.

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