Psalm 134
Many years ago, I was introduced to the music of Ian White. He is a Scottish singer/songwriter who has produced over 20 albums and travelled the world performing them.
At 21, whilst studying for an arts degree at Aberdeen University, Ian became a Christian and decided to dedicate his musical talents to God. He was drawn to the Psalms, and wrote tune after tune, which led to him producing six albums of Psalms covering 70 of them!
The first Psalm I heard put to Ian’s melody was Psalm 134. It is a simple, singable melody which I have used when leading sung worship. Here it is…
“Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord,
who minister by night in the house of the Lord.
Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the Lord.
May the Lord bless you from Zion,
he who is the Maker of heaven and earth.”
This Psalm is the final one in a collection of 15 (Psalm 120 - 134) called ‘A song of Ascents’. It is believed that these particular Psalms would have been sung by worshippers as they made their way up the hill to Jerusalem. They would have also been sung by the priests who served in the Temple.
The first Temple was designed by King David and built by his son Solomon. David planned for there to be worship in the Temple 24/7, and this Psalm reflects that, when it speaks of those ‘ministering by night’ in God’s house.
In recent years, movements such as ‘24/7 Prayer’ have developed, and echo what was done by the priests in ancient times.
Many of the old church buildings in the UK have been places of worship and prayer for centuries. I find it very moving when visiting such places to think of the faithful, consistent devotion within those four walls.
Of course, I don’t have to go anywhere specific to pray or worship God. But when I have visited these places, I do feel a sense of connection to the past and Almighty God in a deeper way.
God’s church is global. That means that somewhere in the world there will always be Christians praying and worshipping God. That’s awesome! When I am awake, it’s my turn to keep that flame of prayer and worship burning bright!
The Psalm writer encourages all of God’s servants to continually ‘Praise the Lord’. I interpret that as meaning, for God’s people, to be those who glorify God through words and actions.
The Psalm concludes asking for God’s blessing on His servants. I am always open to be blessed by God!
As you go about your day, remember there are others around the world have been praying and worshipping God. Today it’s our turn…
God bless you :)
Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader