It’s believed the Songs of Ascent, Psalms 120 to 134, were ancient poems used to prepare hearts and minds for worship as the people “went up” to Jerusalem. Perhaps some key phrases from each one will help you prepare your own heart and mind to bring the best today.
120: In my distress I called to the LORD.
121: My help comes from the LORD.
122: I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!”
123: Have mercy upon us, O LORD.
124: If it had not been the LORD who was on our side…
125: As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore.
126: The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad.
127: Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
128: Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways!
129: The LORD is righteous; he has cut the cords of the wicked.
130: If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.
131: I have calmed and quieted my soul.
132: Arise, O LORD. Let your saints shout for joy.
133: Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.
134: Bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD.
Today, we have the amazing opportunity to approach the same God in worship. Because of Jesus, we can draw near to the throne of the universe with confidence, and experience grace. What an amazing blessing!
Happy Lord’s day.