One of the most important discussions that Jesus had with his disciples is the walk to Emmaus. We are not privy to the details of the conversation, but Luke tells us, “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:27). In this one narrative we get a glimpse of how Jesus saw the Scriptures — that the focus of them was not us, but him.
So how do we go about reading the Psalms in a way that is Jesus-centered and not us-centered? It is really quite easy.
Just put the Psalmist words in Jesus’ mouth. Imagine that Jesus is saying them. Not just the original author. Not you — Jesus.
The richness of reading the Psalms should become immediately apparent.. For instance, here is an excerpt from my Bible reading plan two days ago:
Psalm 31:21-24
21 Blessed be the Lord,
for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me
when I was in a besieged city.
22 I had said in my alarm,
“I am cut off from your sight.”
But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy
when I cried to you for help.
23 Love the Lord, all you his saints!
The Lord preserves the faithful
but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride.
24 Be strong, and let your heart take courage,
all you who wait for the Lord!
Imagine that Jesus is telling this to you, exhorting you. Jesus cried out in alarm, “I am cut off,” but God heard his plea for help — God preserved him in his time of need and will preserve you in yours as well. Jesus had to wait for the vindication of the Lord — and since he had to be strong and courageous, so we can trust that God will show his love to us in his time, because we are in Him.