Psalm 122

Psalm 122

The word ‘duty’ has come to have an almost negative connotation. We think of our ‘duty’ to pay taxes, sit on a jury, renew our licenses, or go to church. Such an understanding is unfortunate. I have a duty to show tender affection to my wife. But that ‘duty’ is also my delight and thrill.

We sometimes treat or think of our time with God’s people as a duty that is a chore or a drudgery, but it is actually a delight. This Psalm is loaded with beautiful images and illustrations, but for now let's look at three ways life in the church is a delight. In verse 3 we see ‘a city that is compact.’ This means every part supports every part. Houses support the walls, walls support the market, etc. In the church, every part/person is supporting and supportive. In verse 4 we see ‘to give thanks.’ Thanksgiving may be the single best thing we can do for our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Praise or thanksgiving is the language of the church. In verse 5, ‘judgment,’ it is only in the church that we circle everything around the beauty of God’s justice in the cross.

“Lord, thank you for the delight of being part of the church. AMEN.”