As we are on this pilgrimage

The title of Psalm 121 (and all the psalms from 120-134) is “A song of ascents.”

These were songs the Jews sang on their pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

But it strikes me, we also are on a pilgrimage…a pilgrimage to a new Jerusalem. (Revelation 21:2)

And it is a journey. God does not simply sweep us to heaven once we become Christians.

The journey can be difficult. The journey can at times be painful.

But this psalm reminds us of where our help comes from.

It reminds us that the Creator of heaven and earth is with us. (2)

It reminds us that he never slumbers nor sleeps. (4)

And each and every day, no matter what we go through, his hand is on us.

This psalm reminds me of Jesus’ words to his disciples.

I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you. (John 14:18)

More, Jesus’ prayer for his disciples (and for us) reflects a lot of this psalm.

Holy Father, protect them by your name that you have given me, so that they may be one as we are one…

I am not praying that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. (John 17:11, 15)

Again, this does not mean we will never go through struggle or pain. Many of Jesus’ disciples died for their faith.

But God is walking with us every step of the way. He will never abandon us. And he will lead us home.