Psalm 102 is subtitled "a prayer of one afflicted." The psalmist describes his life as smoke (v. 3), quickly fading before his eyes, and he describes his body as a furnace burning up his bones (v. 3), perhaps indicating a severe fever or other illness with which he is afflicted. He says he is like cut grass withering in the sun, because he doesn't have an appetite and his body is withering away (v. 4-5). He says he is like the desert owl, and like this nocturnal bird, he can't sleep at night (v. 6-7). As the psalmist languishes in his physical affliction, his enemies taunt him (v. 8).
O Lord, the pain of this psalm is intense. The psalmist is skin and bones, but has no appetite; he is worn down, but can get no rest. His intense pain is like being on fire, but he gets no relief. To add insult to injury, and to kick him while he's down, his enemies mercilessly mock him in the midst of his suffering.
O Lord, though we your servants are like grass that quickly wither away, you are eternal. Forever and ever you reign (v. 12). Though others may mock us, you are merciful. You, O Lord, regard "the prayer of the destitute and [do] not despise their prayer" (v. 17). Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy on us! We pray in Jesus' name, amen.
