Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!
Scripture reading for June 28th: Psalms 120-127
Today’s reading begins a set of 15 psalms that were known as the “Songs of Ascent”. These were songs sung by pilgrims as they traveled on their three required yearly visits to the temple for the celebrations of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. The pilgrims usually came up the road from Jericho to Jerusalem; an elevation change from 1200 feet below sea level in Jericho to over 2400 feet above sea level in Jerusalem. Additionally, it was a dry area with little water and rough terrain. It was also an area known to be inhabited by robbers and marauders who would prey on the pilgrims.
The first psalm in this series began with the pilgrim in a place of distress. He was living among those who hated peace. Around him were deceitful people with lying tongues. He was far from God’s house and realized his need to call on the Lord for help on the journey. If this is where you are today, take time to call on the Lord and decide to move towards Him!
When I was a child in Sunday School, I memorized Psalm 121. As the psalmist began the journey to Jerusalem from Jericho, his eyes saw the hills and he realized that this journey was impossible in his own strength! He confessed that his help came from the Lord, who was Maker of heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:2) The Lord would keep him safe and watch over him day and night. In fact, God will keep him from all harm, not only now but forever! No matter what obstacle or mountain of difficulty you face, remember that God is with you!
The central goal of the journey was Jerusalem, the city of God! Psalm 122 was a song that reminded the traveler of the joy that awaited him there in God’s presence. It was a city closely compacted, a tight-knit community centered around the temple and worship of the Lord! Jerusalem was a city of peace and all pilgrims were encouraged to pray for the peace of the city. In a world where war, hatred, lying and deceitful tongues form the social context of where we live every day, prayer for the peace of Jerusalem prepares our hearts to meet with God. Take time today to pray for the peace of Jerusalem to fill your life on your faith journey!
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