Psalm 133 says, "Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore."
Unity among people is a great blessing from God. We see and hear so much discord around us today, at home and abroad. Political factions shout at and accuse each other, pointing fingers of blame but doing little to unify our country. World terrorists seem never satisfied and blame the “infidels” of the world for the destruction and havoc they create.
But when we do see a group of people acting together, caring for each other and working towards an admirable goal, it is wonderful. David, the writer of Psalm 133, probably wrote these words when he was made king at Hebron after many years of conflict under King Saul’s unpredictable reign. This Psalm was his praise to God at the the joy of seeing His people cooperate and make peace.
Scripture tells us at Aaron’s dedication as high priest, the anointing oil saturated his head and ran onto his robes, signifying his total consecration to God’s holy service. To know that someone is so totally dedicated to God is “good and pleasant.”
The second image used here is the dew on Mt. Hermon in northern Israel. At 8,000 feet high, its sides were lush with vegetation due to the rain and snow, which eventually creates the Jordan River that flows all the way south to the Dead Sea. That kind of rain would also make parts of Israel lush and fruitful, and “good and pleasant” and a blessing on Jerusalem.
I was raised in a large family. It was not uncommon that some of us boys didn’t live in peace, and I recall our mother saying, “I just wish people wouldn’t argue.” Mom liked a peaceful house, one that was “good and pleasant where brothers dwelt in unity.” (paraphrase)
Peace and contentment is wonderful, but it rarely lasts long, whether in families or among nations. So long as there is sin, there will be quarreling. We give thanks for God’s forgiveness in Jesus Christ that brings us back together with Him and also with each other.
Lord Jesus, grant peace and love in Your world and especially in Your Church. Amen
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