This week’s reading plan invites us into Psalms 129–131 and Acts 4:23–31. Let’s walk through them together. Each of the psalms for our reading this week (Psalms 129-131) is a Song of Ascent. These psalms were sung by worshippers journeying to Jerusalem. Each of these psalms contains a common subject of unity. In Psalm 129, a call to unite voices “let Israel now say…” The voices in Psalm 129 acknowledge those who may oppose them. However, what strength they must have found in their united voices and in the Lord. That theme of unity continues in Psalm 130, with a united trust: “O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption” (vs. 7, ESV). This hope emphasizes both the Lord’s forgiveness and His covenant kindness. As they journeyed together singing this song, the Israelites must have been encouraged to remember their relationship with God. We can share the same encouragement with one another as God’s new covenant people. In Psalm 131, a common hope is shared: “O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time forth and forevermore” (vs. 3, ESV). We are God’s children, and the imagery of this psalm reminds us of that. We can be calm like a child with its mother if we trust in God. We can be at peace leaving to God the “things too great and too marvelous” (vs. 1, ESV). We may fall into despair when we dwell on the problems of the world: war, crime, injustice, corruption. We may feel powerless to do anything about these problems, but we can hope in God who is much greater than we are. We can gain strength from the community of Christ’s family as well, just like the Israelites did in their Songs of Ascent.

We see, in Acts 4:23-31, how early Christians put into practice these same principles of community and trust. Just as Israel sang together on their journey, the early church prayed together in their trials. Peter and John’s reaction to persecution was to be strengthened with fellow believers and to pray with them a prayer of trust in the Lord. Their prayer acknowledges the sovereignty of God, and requests boldness in preaching. No doubt all who were present were encouraged.

These passages remind us that God’s people have always found strength in unity, trust, and prayer. The Songs of Ascent united Israelites and drew them closer to God, and the prayer of the early church gave them boldness in the face of opposition. As we reflect on these readings, let’s follow their example:

Unite our voices in worship.
Place our hope in the Lord’s steadfast love.
Pray together for boldness to live and speak the gospel.

I encourage you this week not only to read these passages, but also to share in discussion about God’s Word, pray with a fellow believer, or simply be more mindful of your brethren in worship. In doing so, we continue the journey of God’s people, walking together in trust and hope.