Psalm 87 is not entirely clear to me in its meaning. It is a bit of a puzzle to me. I would likely benefit in taking some more time to chase it down at some point in the future. Zion refers to the City of God, or Jersulam. Korah is an interesting figure. Korah was among those that rebelled against Moses and Aaron (against God really) in Numbers 16. He was from the family of Levi, but not of Aaron. Thus he was not to be a priest, but was chosen to take care of the temple. Rather than being joyful, or even content with his calling, he rebelled wanting to share authority as priest. Rebelling against God ended poorly for him. His young sons survived. He did not.
A small portion of the Psalms, 11, are credited to sons of Korah. I can see two insights from this, I am not sure if one or both is what was intended. First I consider the Psalm as if it was intended for the sons of Korah just as those who care for the temple and second as those who would be like Korah as malcontent and rebellious in their hearts against what God calls them to do.
In either case, the Psalm calls forth a picture of the City of God, Jersulam and perhaps the temple as specially loved by God. It would seem to be a good reminder not only for the original audience but also for us that we should be joyful and appreciate what God has called us to do!
The Privileges of Citizenship in Zion.
A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A Song.
1His foundation is in the holy mountains.
2The LORD loves the gates of Zion
More than all the other dwelling places of Jacob.
3Glorious things are spoken of you,
O city of God.
4“I shall mention Rahab and Babylon among those who know Me;
Behold, Philistia and Tyre with Ethiopia:
‘This one was born there.’”
5But of Zion it shall be said, “This one and that one were born in her”;
And the Most High Himself will establish her.
6The LORD will count when He registers the peoples,
“This one was born there.”
7Then those who sing as well as those who play the flutes shall say,
“All my springs of joy are in you.”
Whether we physically dwell in the City of God or whether we dwell in His kingdom while physically living outside Jerusalem, let us give thanks for His love and for His hand in our lives. Let us accept with humility what ever task He calls for us to do and wherever He calls us to do it. He loves His people as a Father loves His children. As the saying goes… Father knows best.
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