Psalm 129 reimagined

This song was sung by the travelers to Jerusalem as they climbed up towards the city.

From the early days we have been criticised by those outside the church. Let us all reflect on this.
From the early days we have been criticised by those outside the church, but we have never been intimidated.
We are battered and bruised as though we have taken a severe beating.
But the Lord is good, and he has ensured that we are free to live as he / she wants.

May all who hate the church understand the shameful things they do.
May they be as ineffective as a neglected house, abandoned to the elements,
Deserted by the owner and ignored by any buyers.
They have put themselves outside the care of the Lord’s people and their prayers of blessing: The Lord show you his / her favour; we ask the Lord to give you his / her presence.