Comprehension and Interpretation--Continuing the thoughts of Psalm 127 on children, the psalmist addresses family life. The blessing comes from respecting God and walking in His ways. So no one misunderstands, and thinks that we can all just lay back and eat bonbons because God will do all the work for us....Those who work, eat. That's the structure. It is GOOD that we work and see the fruits of our labor. As they walk along, singing, (I still am so into the imagery of this!!) this verse turns to the home. The blessings of a life completely (completely) dedicated to God is obvious in the tone of your home. The pilgrims then pray for the Lord's blessing of peace on their homes, their worship, their cities, and their families.
*Christ Connection*--I had a hard time finding a connection with this song! Jesus did teach on family life, but since I'm trying to keep it during Passover week, it was more challenging. This may be a stretch, but stay with me. 😂 In John 13, we find Jesus sitting at the dinner table with his disciples. These men, who have become His family and dearest friends. He spends more time with them (as far as we have record) than with anyone else in His last years on earth. Although He knew there was a rebellious son-Judas- sitting at the family table, He still chose to serve them by washing their feet. And Peter, always ready to argue, says "No, you're not doing that!!!" And then says "Ok then you're going to do it MY way!" (Does anyone have a spouse or child who is bossy like Peter? 😑) There are deeper reasons why Jesus is doing this act of service, and I'm not trying to make the text say something it's not wanting to say. But I wonder if, when Jesus heard the pilgrims singing of the blessing of family, He looked around the table at these people who have stood by Him and cheered for Him and infuriated Him and worried about Him and thought "This is MY family." These men are going to inherit His life's work, and they will pass this inheritance on to their "children in faith". They will be entrusted with bringing the Peace of God to Israel and beyond. And as Jesus is on His "deathbed", what is important to Him is that these people know they are His own and He has loved them to the end.
A--Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways. Why do we insist on acting like we need every self-help book in the world to figure things out? Just follow the plan God clearly sets out as our CREATOR. Find out His ways, and WALK IN THEM. Of course, there are going to be troubles in our home, failures at every level. But this chapter changes me by leading me to look around the table at those I love, and think about what is important. When I know His ways, but choose my own, I can't expect to see validation from my husband and children. Pray for peace, success, and blessings from God for your family. And live and love like You trust the process--Behold, it works!! (vs 4)
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