Today’s scripture: Psalm 122 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Genese Parker):
“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the House of the Lord.” This scripture, Psalm 122 (KJV), was recited every week in the church that I grew up in. It was a phrase that was recited in an automatic, almost thoughtless ritual that was repeated Sunday after Sunday.
One Sunday in my early 20’s this phrase came to mind as I was getting ready to go to church in Bloomington, IN. This time the church was one that I had chosen for myself as an adult, and I was struck by the fact that I was actually excited when it came time to go to church on Sunday mornings. It is a powerful thing when the church community that you are a part of feels welcoming and inclusive. Now that I have moved back to Indianapolis, I have found myself, ‘glad’ when they said, “let us go into the house of the Lord” because my church community is one that is welcoming, supportive, accepting and empowering.
In Psalm 122, David does not stop at the joy that entering the House of the Lord brings him; he continues on to consider how the city in which his place of worship is located is also a gift from God.
This really strikes me because it is not often that we pause to consider how much of a blessing the city that our church is located in, is to us. For many of us, this city is the place where we live, work and raise our children. David prays for the peace of Jerusalem. How often do we pray for our city?
When I think about how grateful I am for the people that make my faith community a blessing, I often pause and say a prayer of thanksgiving for my church. I ask the God to continue to bless my faith community so that I can continue to grow, learn and be supported by the dear friends who greet me every time I walk into the church building. However, I am challenged by this passage of scripture, to consider how the city in which my faith community is located contributes to my experiences and thus influences my growth, faith, and maturity in this life.
Thought for the Day: Indianapolis is a city with many, and at times seemingly growing, challenges. How might we as followers of Christ impact the city if we committed to praying for peace and prosperity in our city?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.