A Song for Pilgrims, a Reflection on Psalm 122

In this week's passage from Isaiah, we looked back at a time of upheaval and fear and heard words of promise--along with a call to repentance. Isaiah told them what the future was to be--the restoration of place and, moreover, in that place, a life of peace among all people.

We read these ancient prophecies and hear them new for us. We remember what God has provided for us and look forward to a realization of hopes and peace.

Psalm 122 is the lectionary response to the reading from Isaiah.

It begins with an expression of gratitude to be able to go into Jerusalem. We modern day Christians can read this as a reminder of what God did long ago, and we can read these words as a reminder of what God is still doing and will do.

What is our Jerusalem? Where do we see ourselves gathered in worship? Do we visualize this place as one with many kinds of people gathering?

And, there, what do we pray for?

And, having prayed, what do we do when we leave our places of worship? Whose good are we seeking?