NOTES for Psa 85

The Lord has already forgiven the people; He has already shown them mercy. Yet the psalmist anxiously asks: will His anger never cease? Apparently, it is difficult for a sinner who has realized the full gravity of his offenses to accept that the Lord is merciful; this does not easily fit into a mind accustomed to thinking in human categories. One who seeks justice understood in human terms often considers it impossible to show mercy; justice is then conceived as harsh and “well-deserved” retribution.

But it is not so with the Lord, for whom there is no impossibility in resolving the contradictions between truth and mercy. The person listens to the voice of the Most High, and He confirms that from now on the people may live in peace. He sets only one small condition: they must not fall into folly or return to sinful ways.

Humanity is still far from God, but His righteousness is already coming to earth, anticipating the triumph of His Kingdom in the world.