There are 15 individual psalms that all bear the superscription, “A Song of Ascents.” These are collated and found in Psalms 120-134. The prevailing theory is that the “ascent” is referring to the journeys to Jerusalem and the Temple by pilgrims, especially during the three festivals celebrated in Jerusalem. The idea of going up addresses both geography and spirituality. Physically, Jerusalem is built on a series of hills, so one literally must ascend to enter the city. Spiritually, the hearts, minds and spirits of pilgrims would rise up as they came to this holy and venerated site of the faith.
It is interesting that there is not a clear uniformity within the 15 psalms that compose this collection. There is not a unity of literary type, theme or disposition of the spirit. Some offer unbridled praise. Others proclaim complete trust in God’s protection or vindication. However, there are others that plea for mercy or pray for deliverance. The truth is that there is a mixed bag of emotions represented in these psalms.
The message contained in this interesting assortment of psalms is instructive as we approach Thanksgiving, and the celebration of Christmas that follows in a month. The key is not in HOW we approach, but WHO we approach. The one constant in the Songs of Ascents is they are directed at God. Whether the psalmists were experience elation, firm conviction or apprehension, they lifted their voice to the God in whom they placed their trust.
Especially this year, but truthfully in every year, we all will approach Thanksgiving with a great variety of states of being. Within our congregations, our families, our friendship groups or our individual moments, there will be a variety of sentiments that arise. Some will approach with great joy, claiming victories and healings. Others will cling to an unwavering confidence that God is at work in their lives, even though they cannot see the results in the present. Still others will be in a season of lament and despair – hoping, praying, and pleading that God will act. In some cases, there may be some on the journey who find it difficult even to look up to the heavens.
One of the great blessings of the great variety in the entire book of Psalms is the immense variety of emotions that are expressed. This teaches us that we can bring our entire selves – unvarnished, undisguised and authentic – to God. Whatever our disposition, God is more ready to hear the cries of our heart than we are to share them.
However you are approaching this season, I pray that as you ascend to your Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, God will meet you where you are and bring comfort, joy and hope.
If you would like to view past editions of Moments with Mike, follow this link: https://corridordistrictnc.org/category/from-the-ds/