Psalm 87 – The Glories of the City of God

Published August 16, 2023 by Rev. Pete Van't Hoff in Devotions

What more, can humanity boast in, other than its cities? What captures the triumphs of humanity’s achievements, historically and today, other than the cities that we have built? Think Babel. Think Babylon. Think Las Vegas, New York, Toronto. Psalm 87, of the sons of Korah, is a particularly unique psalm reflecting upon the glories of the City of God, from which, humanity can only glean a footing.

1 His foundation is in the holy mountains.
The Lord loves the gates of Zion
More than all the dwellings of Jacob.
Glorious things are spoken of you,
O city of God! Selah

At Verses 4-6, those human cities of worldly glory are called to observe the divine Builder, to see only that such “human glory” is founded upon the glory of the Divine!

“I will make mention of Rahab [another name for Egypt] and Babylon to those who know Me;
Behold, O Philistia and Tyre, with Ethiopia:
‘This one was born there.’ ”

And of Zion it will be said,
“This one and that one were born in her;
And the Most High Himself shall establish her.”
The Lord will record,
When He registers the peoples:
“This one was born there.” Selah

So then look and marvel at our human achievements. But worship God.

Both the singers and the players on instruments say,
“All my springs are in you.”

This reality will be confirmed, when Christ returns and the City of God descends (Rev. 21:10-27). Let us pray.

Dear Lord and heavenly Father,

Blessed be the work of Your hands. May the work of our hands reflect Your glory, and your glory alone. May the Holy Spirit continue to prepare us for such glory, making us worthy citizens of that holy city coming. Such a work is confirmed for us, in the life and death of Your Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Restore us, O God. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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