It seems that the psalmist is distressed by his people’s suffering. He recalls the glorious days when the nation was born through God’s mercy and power. He wonders what became of this promising child. He ends on a sorrowful, nostalgic note. Again, it reflects the problem of evil on a national level. Once extended, God’s right hand now appears to have been withdrawn. No answer is given. The Lord has given and taken away, and that’s all. This is often the case with nations and individuals. Blessed is the name of the Lord for what He gave, even if He has taken it away.
The Passover signifies the “passing of the Lord.” We look back and remember Jesus Christ, ‘risen from the dead’ (2 Tim 2:8); then, we proclaim the power of the resurrection (cf. Col 3:1-2). It is a psalm meant for remembrance during times of trouble.
We often view the past as more wonderful than it was. Over time, we will see that God remains just as present and active today.