The singers leading the grand procession sing, “Summon your power, O God…” or perhaps, “Your God has summoned power for you…” and continue with “…show us your strength, O God, as you have done before.” They want the Lord to continue his victory over their foes so that other kings may bring him gifts. They specifically mention Egypt, where beasts such as crocodiles and hippopotamuses dwell (the symbols of ancient Egypt). Cush, later known as Sudan and southern Egypt, is also mentioned (31).
This was fulfilled on Pentecost for people from Egypt who were in Jerusalem heard Peter’s message (Acts 2:10). They believed, were baptised, and filled with the Holy Spirit. They returned to Egypt, where they founded the oldest congregations outside of Jerusalem. Some still in existence today have received much persecution in recent decades, including the burning of some of the oldest churches in the world. Their faith in such persecution is a great gift to God. Humbled, they bring bars of silver to Jesus. Will your faith continue when humbled as they?

