Often there are lots of footnotes, quotes, links, and illustrations that go into worship and a message on Sunday mornings. Some of those items make it, others don't. The cutting room floor includes a little bit of everything. Here is a sampling from this past week's message entitled: "Songs for the Road" from Psalm 120 and 121. You can download the sermon here: City Church iTunes Podcast.
Summary: The Psalms of Ascent (Psalm 120-134) are ancient "Songs for the Road." They were sung on the journey as God's people approached Jerusalem for yearly worship festivals. They express powerfully both the joys and the pains of life. They a gritty, raw, and beautiful, describing what this journey of faith is all about.
Baltimore Magazine archived the Baltimore Colts departure 30 years ago this month: COLT FOLLOWING
If you want to read more about the Psalms of Ascent, I recommend these books:
The first is "Journey to Joy" by Josh Moody. I've met Josh and heard his teaching on the Psalms of Ascent. He is the pastor of College Church in Chicago and is a great communicator.
The second is "A Long Obedience in the Same Direction" by Eugene Peterson. Peterson is best known for his MESSAGE translation of the Bible. He was also a pastor in Maryland for many years.