The Best Place To Live Is In A "Walk-Up".

As we begin reflection on Sunday’s sermon, let’s read the key passage shared by Pastor Sam. He pointed out that Psalm 126 is “a song of ascents”—one of several psalms that were traditionally sung as men walked up the hilly terrain to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem.

In today’s context, what does God find us doing as we proverbially “walk up the hill” to worship Him? Are we singing? Are we sighing? Are we so distracted that we forget Scripture’s protocol for how an individual ought to approach the King of kings?

Lord God, as we read Your word, please plant a song in our hearts. Remind us that as we sing praises to You, Your Spirit comes to help us climb every steep hill of life. We walk through our days anticipating entrance into Your Presence. Thank You for walking with us!

Psalm 126: A song of ascents.

King James Version:

When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them.

The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.

Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in the south. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

New International Version:

When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”

The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

Restore our fortunes, Lord, like streams in the Negev. Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.