Pilgrim Songs--Psalm 127 and John 14:1-14

Comprehension and Interpretation--This Psalm was written either by David with thoughts of Solomon, or by Solomon himself.  Either way, as the Hebrew pilgrims are making their way to their destination to worship, the next verse of their song turns to thoughts of work.  Building, security, protection, schedules.  They have left behind a life to take this pilgrimage, even for just a short time, so it seems right to address all the things weighing heavy on their minds.  All the things "they" are doing and could be doing are in vain unless they trust it all to the overarching power of God.  Children are a reward, an endowment from God.  They come with a need for a building plan, security, protection, schedule every bit as much as our "workplace" does.  Blessed are the parents who see their children with the value God gave them.  

*Christ Connection*--Although we read John 14:1-14, we get our connection from the first 3 verses.  I wonder if Jesus heard the Pilgrims singing the familiar 8th verse of the Songs of Ascents, the climbing songs, and thought "While we are on the subject of the Lord building the house..." He tells his disciples that He is going to prepare a place for them, a many-roomed house already built by the Father.  This House does not require us to endlessly worry over house plans or remodeling because it's already been established by Father God.  This House does not need us to worthlessly set watch over it's security because it's safe in God's keeping.  Jesus is telling the disciples about their eternal home, one  they will ultimately travel to with no thought of what they've left behind.  The disciples (and we) have a hard time wrapping our minds around it.    But Jesus said don't let any of that disturb you, He has not only provided a way to it, He IS the way to it.  Believe in God, believe in Jesus. Don't be anxious, because He gives His beloved sleep.  

Application--I've often said "Work is the curse, relationship is the blessing".  (Disclaimer--God in His unwavering love has also allowed us to find great fulfillment in work, through His gifts that equip us for work we love.)  We spend so much time and effort on work, sometimes neglecting the gift of relationship.  There's no value in the mindset "I'll sleep when I'm dead" when God is offering you rest NOW.  The rest He offers is multi-layered.  It's not  "go rest, all this work will still be here when you get up."  It's "Go rest, I'm taking care of everything."  Why do we daily choose to do it--build, work, worry, plan, watch-like it all rests on our shoulders? The anxious toil takes it's toll on us in so many ways when we think it's all up to us.   Work hard, raise your children to do the same, but find your rest in the fact that God is in control. (He REALLY is, that's not just a meme-worthy saying.  It's REALLY true.) I pray to be able to rest in His finished work.