May 14

A Song Of The Sanctuary

O LORD, I love the house where You dwell, the place where Your glory resides. — Ps 26:8 BSB

We often do not appreciate the House of God until we are separated from it. The author of this psalm was clearly in exile.

He longed for the holy places where he once worshiped and even envied the birds who nested there. The pilgrims on their way to the temple and the door-keepers who stood at the entrance seemed more fortunate to him than his own situation. Like Robinson Crusoe, who missed the sound of the church bell when he could no longer hear it, there is a deep yearning for worship in those who have been deprived of it for years. Let us be thankful for “the means of grace” and use them reverently while we have access to them.

To find God’s tabernacles “lovely,” we must first love the Lord of Hosts as our King and God. When God holds His rightful place in our hearts and lives, we will love His dwelling places. When we worship God as King, we will come with reverence, punctuality, and a prepared, expectant heart. The imperfections of the minister, the singing, or the atmosphere will not distract a soul focused on God.

It is a blessing when the highways to Zion hold a special place in a person’s heart—when they love the journey because of the destination. In our earthly pilgrimage, we pass through valleys of sorrow and heights of joy. Life is not a dull monotony, and we should not complain about the road but embrace every part of the journey. Every experience has its compensations. In the valleys, we find springs of refreshment, and on the hills, we gain a wider perspective. Whether we are in a valley or on a hill, the path brings us closer to our desired goal.

This psalm reminds us that God is our shield. At night, He is our sun; during the day, when trials strike us like swords, He is our shield (Psalm 121:5-6). No matter what we face, God is our equalizer. When our souls are under attack, He is our refuge, like an iron door stopping the rush of fire. He surrounds us on every side.

Prayer

Grant us grace, O Lord, not to miss any of the blessings You are waiting to bestow. Teach us to receive and appreciate all that You offer. Amen.