May 23 | Psalm 125

---

DAILY READING

Psalm 125

---

REFLECTION

In the Sandbox

by Ken Dillman 

As a young boy, a large tractor tire sat in our backyard; each spring, usually in May, my father would bring in a load of fresh sand for us kids. The moist grainy granules were perfect for playing with my toy soldiers. Invariably, I would construct a sand fort in the middle of the tire, with multi-tiered fortifications on which I would position the “good guys” so that they would have a fighting chance against the “bad guys” below. I would play for hours by myself; after each battle I would deconstruct the fort like most 10-year-olds would, the smash of my foot, then begin the process all over again with a new fort and new armies.

When David became king of a united Israel, he made Jerusalem (Zion) the capital; he fortified the city that sat on a mountain that was surrounded by mountains, making it a secure stronghold against potential enemies, much like my sand forts.

The author of Psalm 125 uses the metaphor of a strategic Jerusalem, to illustrate how the Immovable God surrounds his people and protects them; those who love, serve, and commit themselves to God, will be safe from their enemies. Because of God’s covenant with his people, and his deep care and love for them, even the darkest hours are but a shadow that the light will soon overcome.

Oh, how I knew this concept in the sandbox as a boy, I know it even more now as an adult who trusts in the Lord’s provision and protection, hour by hour, day by day, believing that for “those who love God all things work together for good.” (Rom. 8:28)

In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it,” which is language similar to what the psalmist uses. Regardless of what the Enemy throws at us, as followers of Jesus, we have his guarantee and hope that nothing can overcome us because “the Lord surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore.”

Often, while playing with my toy soldiers in the sandbox, I would direct the battles in such a way that it seemed like the “bad guys” would be victorious; however, as the battle wore on, when calamity appeared a certainty to the “good guys,” they would prevail because of who was overseeing the battle.

Psalm 125 was written to be an encouragement and hope to God’s people for all times; as the Church of Jesus it’s our encouragement and hope also.

Prayer

Father, you are our constant hope, would you encourage us daily in our life with you, that we can have full confidence in knowing who is watching over us and surrounds us with love.

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

My wife, Karen and I have been attending UALC for 6-7 years and enjoy God's presence in our gatherings. We live in Hilliard; our three adult children live in Central Ohio. I am a retired Chaplain and Pastor, and enjoy writing, walking, jogging, and listening to live music. I appreciate the opportunity to write for the church’s devotionals.

---