God’s Renewing Word of Peace and Justice
Introduction
Psalm 122: Today’s reading is from a collection of psalms (121-134) knowns as “Songs of Ascent” – hymns that were most likely sung by pilgrims journeying “up to Jerusalem” to celebrate one of Israel’s major festivals. Psalm 122 expresses a song of praise for Jerusalem and a prayer for Jerusalem’s well-being.
Scripture Reading
In Praise of Jerusalem
122 I was glad when they said to me,
“Let us go to the Lord’s house.”
2 And now we are here,
standing inside the gates of Jerusalem!
3 Jerusalem is a city restored
in beautiful order and harmony.
4 This is where the tribes come,
the tribes of Israel,
to give thanks to the Lord
according to his command.
5 Here the kings of Israel
sat to judge their people.
6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
“May those who love you prosper.
7 May there be peace inside your walls
and safety in your palaces.”
8 For the sake of my relatives and friends
I say to Jerusalem, “Peace be with you!”
9 For the sake of the house of the Lord our God
I pray for your prosperity.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 122:1
I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the LORD’s house.”
Reflect
Reread verses 1 and 2. What joy is expressed? In verses 3-5, how is Jerusalem described and praised? What prayer is expressed in verses 6-9? In what ways does worshiping God bring you joy?
Pray
Almighty God, how happy I am when I worship and praise you. You surround me with your love and peace, and you fill my heart with joy. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Obadiah 1-21: God’s punishment is described for one of Israel’s enemies.