Psalm 134 has only three verses, but it is proof that little things can mean a lot. The first two verses are an admonition to the priests who serve in Gods house night after night. The building was dark and empty; nothing of consequence was occurringor so it seemed. Yet these ministers were encouraged to lift up [their] hands to the holy place and bless the Lord! (v. 2 esv). The third verse is a voice from the congregation calling into the darkness and loneliness of the night: The Lord who made heaven and earth bless you.
I think of other servants of the Lord todaypastors and their families who serve in small churches in small places. Theyre often discouraged, tempted to lose heart, doing their best, serving unnoticed and unrewarded. They wonder if anyone cares what theyre doing; if anyone ever thinks of them, prays for them, or considers them a part of their lives.
I would say to themand to anyone who is feeling lonely or insignificant: Though your place is small, it is a holy place. The one who made and moves heaven and earth is at work in and through you. Lift up your hands and praise Him.
INSIGHT
:Psalms can be instructive in describing various expressions of worship. Todays psalm encourages those who are involved in ministry in the temple to lift up their hands. This psalm is descriptive and tells us what is happening, rather than prescriptive telling us what should happen. We are not wrong if we do not hold up our hands in worship, but we have the freedom to use this expression of praise to God.