A song to sing on the Journey

Read Psalm 121.

The journey to Jerusalem for the feast days could be an arduous one.  If the  traveler came from the east, the elevation of Jericho is 1200 feet below sea level.  Jerusalem is 2600 feet above sea level.  It is no wonder why the psalms in this section are called songs of ascents,

Going in groups hopefully would provide some protection from thieves, but still they must contend with fatigue, the heat of the day and the uncertainty of night.  Singing together encouraged their faith, reminded them of their purpose, and renewed their endurance for the trek.  Watch how the psalm unfolds for the ones who sang this on journey.  

First, the singer encouraged himself (vv.1-2).  Looking ahead as the pilgrims walked up the hills to Jerusalem, either the site of the Temple came into view or at least the expectancy was there.  The Temple contained the presence of God in the Holy of Holies.  The pilgrim could not wait to arrive for worship and celebration.  The source of help is not in the creation but the Creator.  All along the way, God was the source of personal help.

Then, the singer encouraged others.  Notice the pronoun shift from I and my to you and your.  The singer now seeks to strengthen the faith of others.

1. There is no need to fear the night. (vv.3-4)  In the night watches, we need not fear.  The weary traveler may enjoy a good night's sleep because our God is always watching over us.

2. There is no need to fear the day. (vv.5-6)  Like the cloud that hovered over Israel in Exodus, the LORD is present as a shield and shade when the heat and stress is upon us.

3. There is no need to fear evil. (v.7)  As the Good Shepherd, God protects us so "I will fear no evil for you are with me." (Psalm 23:4)

4. There is no need to fear, not now or ever. (v.8)
"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39)