The timeless nature of truth

Psalm 84 is often remembered for its first line, “How lovely is your dwelling place.” The psalmist pictures a long journey, often through difficult times, but it will end up where God has established his permanent dwelling. The deep longing of the psalmist to be with God resonates throughout the psalm. Even the birds are welcome in his house and it is there that they raise their young – a beautiful picture of God’s concern for his own.
         One of the unique things about a Psalm like this is that it speaks directly to the heart. We know that “the place in which you dwell is lovely “ because every time we drop in for prayer our hearts are warmed and we go on our way refreshed. It is a place that as we step out for the day we find ourselves singing His praise. Even though the day ahead may have its tears ( in today’s psalm you call it a “Valley of Weeping”) it turns out that we are stronger as a result. I’d rather have a bit of time each morning with you, my Lord, than spend the entire day “living it up” (as the say). I’ve certainly found out that you “hold back no good thing” as I live out the day in a way that brings you pleasure. What an incredible experience to join in spirit your people of earlier times, especially the David the Psalmist as he gave voice to a longing of heart that in universal, transcending the boundaries of time. Let’s join the “man after God’s own heart” as he lifts his voice in praise. 

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​How lovely the place in which you dwell
That’s where I long to be;
Even the sparrow is at home in your courts
By your altar her young can live free.
 
What a joy to be with you, I desire nothing more
Than to dwell in your house singing praise;
Blessed are those whose strength is in you
How glorious are your ways.
 
Life takes us through through the Valley of Weeping
You make it a place of springs;
On the road to Zion we keep growing stronger
What renewal your presence brings.
 
Hear now our prayer, O Lord God Almighty
Show favor to those you forgive;
Better is a day in your courts, O God
Than to dwell where the wicked live.
 
You, O Lord, are my sword and shield
The granting favor to me;
No good thing will the Lord hold back
Walk blameless and you will see