"How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" Psalm 133:1b (NLT)
Psalm 133 is another Song of Accent the Israelites sang on their trip upward to Jerusalem. Can you hear the music and God's children singing in harmony? My mind's eye can see the scene. Remember the times of discord among the children of Israel? It hasn’t been too long since we read of the fighting among the 12 tribes. In Psalm 133, David celebrates the absence of strife.
Harmony is a state of oneness and the absence of diversity. David describes harmony in two ways. First, he says harmony is as precious as the anointing oil poured over Aaron's head. Think back to when Aaron was anointed as the first priest. He was clothed in the newly God-designed, hand-crafted, regal priestly garments and stood in front of the whole assembly of Israel. The anointing oil had a sweet aroma that filled the air. When there is no discord or division, there is sweetness in the air.
Secondly, David described harmony as refreshing as the dew from Mt. Hermon that falls on Mt. Zion. Dew refreshes the ground and helps plants grow when there is little rain. Just as dew rejuvenates the earth, so harmony revives God’s children.
Harmony is wonderful and pleasant, but also difficult to achieve and maintain. In Psalm 141, David called out to God regarding specific requests. As I reflect on harmony and the part I play in achieving and maintaining it, I cry out the same plea:
- Take control of what I say, O LORD, and guard my lips (vs. 3)
- Don't let me drift toward evil or take part in acts of wickedness (vs. 4)
- Don't let me share in the delicacies of those who do wrong (vs. 4)
