See bulletin As we celebrated Jesus’ ascension to heaven and what it means for us, it is appropriate to take special note that there are quite a few Psalms that remind us of the importance of our own “ascension.” So what does this mean? Psalm 134:1 A Song of Ascents. Behold, bless the LORD, All you servants of the LORD, Who by night stand in the house of the LORD! 2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, And bless the LORD. 3 The LORD who made heaven and earth Bless you from Zion! “A Song of Ascents” is labeled with the idea of the Old Testament Children of Israel ascending to the LORD’s temple or “sanctuary” for worship. All believer’s whether living inside or outside of Jerusalem would ascend to Mt. Zion to “stand in the house” and “bless the LORD.” As servants of our Triune LORD, we “ascend” each week to the Lord’s house to hear what our LORD God has done for us! These songs of ascents were often song on the ascent… on the way to God’s temple. In other words, the “Songs of Ascents” were hymns sang on the way to church. And why not? Colossians 3:16 says, Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. It is this rich word of Christ our Savior that admonishes and corrects our often loveless or thankless attitude for our blessings (physical or spiritual). It is this rich word of Christ “who made heaven and earth” (c.f. John 1:1-14) that gives us reason to “sing with grace in our hearts” to Him who gave His life for our victory and for our eternal joy! When we think of Jesus’ ascension, let us celebrate it year round in singing “songs of ascents,” while we are ‘ascending’ to God’s house at church. May the Spirit teach and bless us to remember… Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Colossians 3:17)