Songs of Ascent - Worship (Psalm 122)

Our third Song of Ascent draws our attention up to the temple, and up to the presence of God.

Psalm 122

Worshipping together helps to ground us in knowing God, his love, and his family around us.

As the people journeyed to Jerusalem, the sense of excitement would build as they approached the great city and the Holy place where God manifest his Spirit. Where worship, sacrifice, teaching, prayers, and rituals expressing the relationship of God and his people would be entered into by all who had come.

So, the Psalm commences with praise, “I rejoice with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD’”. (Psalm 122:1) They would gather from across the tribes as well as other nations in unity to worship. The great city and temple, built with skill and craftsmanship reflects the people of God, moulded together with his creative hands. The Holy place where the Spirit of God dwells impacting the lives of all who come.

Jesus’ death and resurrection opens a way to all to not go to the geographical place of Jerusalem, but to approach God where we are. The Spirit is active in those who believe and across all of creation. But the need to come in community is required. The power and blessing that happens as we gather to worship God is commanded because we are shaped through the regular pattern of gathering. It is where “peace and

prosperity” is found” (v6-9).

Peace, the spiritual rest, and presence of God. Prosperity, not financial security but a security in knowing God is with me and I am with him. Part of his family. Worshipping together helps to ground us in knowing God, his love, and his family around us.

So, each Sunday or whenever we are meeting together as God’s people, let us rejoice because we are meeting, learning, growing, discovering, and practicing together God’s peace and prosperity. I encourage you, come with expectant hearts and minds to be blessed and be a blessing.

God Bless

Pastor Stephen