Have you ever heard a song and continued with the words or the tune long after it stopped playing? Ever had a song come to mind as you were praying over a concern or trouble? Music has a way of soothing and also a way of encouraging.
Psalm 124 is believed to be a call and response song often sung as people made their way up to the temple for worship. The content of the song recalls how God has intervened in the past to save Israel from its enemies. It was a concrete reminder of how God is always present to protect the people, always there to preserve at lead a remnant. As Psalm 124 was sung, it also reminded the people of their dependence on God.
We too are often blessed by God’s hand and are often living under His protection. The words of songs or hymns that we know can remind us of these gifts. Their words can also encourage and lift us up in times of need. Music can be powerful.
Psalm 124 prepared the people for worship as they made their way to the temple. It put them in the right frame of mind. I imagine at times people would sing or hum the song as they went through the ups and downs of their daily lives. Music serves to connect us to God as well, reminding us of who God is and of how we are in relationship with God. May we too find encouragement and strength when needed and may we offer up our praise and thanksgiving as well through the gift of music each day.
Scripture reference: Psalm 124