Israel ’10 – The Psalms of Ascent

For the next 10 days I’m in Israel with two of my children. We arrived last night and slept here in Tel Aviv. Today we head up the coast and then over to Galilee and finally end up in Jerusalem. This is their first time and I know they are going to be amazaed at what they see. For me, it’s my second visit. The first time I was with a group of 5 brothers and it was my introduction to this beautiful land. I was overwhelmed taking it all in and was glad their was a tour guide and my good friend Terry Allen (whose been here many times) to get me around. This time I’m tour guide and driving! (My kids would appreciate your prayers.)

Psalms 120 to 134 are commonly referred to as the Psalms of Ascent.  They are thought to be psalms sung by pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem for worship. I want to use these Psalms during the trip as points for reflection. I feel that it’s a time of personal ascent for me – time to move forward…

Psalm 120 is a song of lament – lament over personal loss at living among those who prefer deceit and violence over the way of the Lord. “Too long…” says the Psalmist. I agree. It’s time to pursue the presence of the Lord.

Psalm 120

In my distress I called to the Lord,
and he answered me.
Deliver me, O Lord,
from lying lips,
from a deceitful tongue.

What shall be given to you,
and what more shall be done to you,
you deceitful tongue?
A warrior’s sharp arrows,
with glowing coals of the broom tree

Woe to me, that I sojourn in Meshech,
that I dwell among the tents of Kedar!
Too long have I had my dwelling
among those who hate peace.

I am for peace,
but when I speak, they are for war!