Thursday, October 3 – Psalms 134, 136

1. How are God’s guidance and care for His people during the Exodus described in Psalms 136? (Psalm 136:16)

2. Is the Lord mindful of His people’s affliction? (Psalm 136:23)

3. Where does the food for all living creatures come from? (Psalm 136:25)

Commentary and Reflection:

Psalm 134 is an exhortation to the sanctuary’s night watchmen, calling them to worship the Lord (verses 1-2), followed by their response (verse 3). This short psalm is the last of the “Songs of Ascents.” These psalms were called “Songs of Ascent” because pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem for the annual feasts would sing them as they “ascended” to the Holy City. It is important to remember that Jerusalem is located in a high place, and it was often said, “Let us go up to worship” or “Let us go up to Zion.”

Among the Jews, Psalm 136 is the “Great Hallel.” The alternating or antiphonal refrain, “For His mercy endures forever,” was sung by worshipers or the temple choir. This practice of praise has been used in our churches with Psalm 136, and it has also been adapted to create an antiphon with the congregation, where the first phrase of each verse is updated to reflect current experiences in our experience. For example:

“Praise the Lord, for He is good, 
For His mercy endures forever.”

“God protected us during the pandemic,
For His mercy endures forever.”

“He cares for our families, 
For His mercy endures forever.”

“The Almighty worked miracles by providing us with jobs during difficult times,
For His mercy endures forever.”

Psalm 136 emphasizes the Lord’s wonders in creation and His care for His people during the Exodus. I invite you to try something similar during a family gathering, perhaps when welcoming the Sabbath or in a Thanksgiving Service. Each member of the family or group could mention a reason for gratitude and praise to the Lord for something God did, and the rest would respond in unison: “For His mercy endures forever.”

The mercy of the Lord is with you forever.