Though notably disturbing, Psalm 137 is quite relatable. No, not verse 9, but the sentiment behind longing for what used to be. The Israelites had been in exile, where they stayed for 70 years. They missed their homes, their traditions, and their regular way of life.
For us it hasn’t even been 7 months and we’re going crazy!
Like the Israelites, I long for the comforts of my regular life. I want to feel comfortable walking through my grocery store with my kids in the basket. I want to be able to buy 409 when I run out. I want to be able to stand at the door of the Munger Education Building on a Sunday complimenting girls’ twirly dresses, high-fiving little boys, and calling them all by name. May we learn from the Israelites and never take normal life for granted again.
August 24: Psalm 134
Today’s Takeaways:
- Psalms of Ascent were sung as Israelites would travel to the temple for special festivals.
- You can almost hear this one being sung by a group getting excited about a celebration.
Today’s Talking Topic:
- What’s your favorite song we sing on a special holiday like Christmas or Easter?
August 25: Psalm 135
Today’s Takeaways:
- Jacob’s name was changed to Israel and when the psalm refers to God choosing Israel it means both the man and the group of people.
- Verses 15-18 are a great reminder why God is the only one we should worship.
Today’s Talking Topic:
- What is one thing other than God that is easy for you to worship?
August 26: Psalm 136
Today’s Takeaways:
- This psalm was probably meant to be sung as a call and response.
- This psalm is a great overview of the events in their history the Israelites viewed as most significant in terms of God’s care for them.
Today’s Talking Topic:
- What is an event in your life that made it clear how much God loves you?
August 27: Psalm 137
Today’s Takeaways:
- The Israelites clearly resent the Babylonians for taking them into exile.
- Verse 9 is clearly disturbing. This was written in a much more violent time than we can understand in our context.
Today’s Talking Topic:
- The Israelites were heartbroken that they had been separated from their worship place and way of life. What do you miss most about going to church?
August 28: Psalm 138
Today’s Takeaways:
- David was not afraid to praise God even in front of his enemies.
- God still wants to hear from us even though he is so much higher and greater than us.
Today’s Talking Topic:
- Are there times when you’re afraid to praise God?
August 29: Psalm 139
Today’s Takeaways:
- God knows us better than we know ourselves.
- Nothing about us can be hidden from God so we might as well share our whole selves with him.
Today’s Talking Topic:
- When you read verses 13 and 14, how does it make you feel?
August 30: Psalm 140
Today’s Takeaways:
- The Lord is able to protect us from anything that would seek to harm us.
- David wanted revenge on his enemies.
Today’s Talking Topic:
- What would you like to ask God to protect you from?
Munger Kids 