A Psalm of Hope

I Have Calmed and Quieted My Soul

A Song of Ascents. Of David.

1 O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too 

  high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too 

  marvelous for me.

2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child 

  with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.

3 O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time forth and 

  forevermore.

Psalms 120 – 134 are called “Songs of Ascents.” Jerusalem was on a hill, and the temple was located at the highest point in the city. For those making a pilgrimage to the city, these psalms were read along the way (or sung or recited), and for those in the city, the psalms were read as they drew near for worship. This psalm is David’s psalm as he prepares for entry into God’s presence. His mind is quieted as is his soul. His hope is with God. As king of Israel, he prays Israel’s hope is as well.

Where do we place our hope? A familiar hymn echoes this sentiment:

My hope is built on nothing less 

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;

No merit of my own I claim 

But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

All other ground is sinking sand.

May this be our prayer for today, and always. Amen.

“My Hope is Built” Edward Mote, 1836, London. (Lutheran Service Book #576)