“When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.” Mark 14.26
Although I included this verse in the previous entry, I did not give any time or attention to this mountain or to the hymn that was sung. At first glance, it may seem insignificant, but upon deeper reflection, this one verse is filled with much meaning and importance (as is every bit of God’s Word, which is indeed living and active).
First, why does the Mount of Olives matter? I found a wonderful article that I would encourage you to read. You can find it here. Not only does it affirm Jesus’ three visits to the mount during the final week of his life, but it also points out that this is where his ascension happened. In addition, both King David (2 Sam. 15:30) and King Solomon (1 Kings 11:7) had important interactions here (one faithful and one abhorrent to the Lord). Ezekiel 11:23 speaks about a vision of the glory of the Lord landing atop the mountain, and finally, in Zechariah 14:4, a messianic prophecy speaks about this as the place of Christ’s return.
So, it’s really not just a mountain that Jesus came upon on occasion. I imagine many books have been written on the significance of this place and the weaving together of God’s promises for his people viewed from this mountain. And besides, since it is so close to Jerusalem, everything that happened there could be observed from this hill. What those early Jewish eyes must have seen—from the repeated destructions of this Holy City to the triumphs of its victories.
In addition to a mountain, there is also mention of a hymn. “When they had sung a hymn….” the writer of Mark says. It was their custom, as faithful Jews, to sing praises to God. It does not say “if they had sung,” but “when they had sung,” as if it had been expected because it had. What hymn did they sing? Some scholars suggest it was Psalm 118, which is the last of the Passover hymns according to one source (https://www.crossway.org/articles/when-jesus-sang/#:~:text=Historians%20and%20scholars%20say%20they,His%20steadfast%20love%20endures%20forever.”). It ends with the refrain, “His steadfast love endures forever.”
I imagine they sang one of the Psalms and, in so doing, re-attuned their hearts and souls to God. In the midst of doing the Lord’s business and carrying out the great plan of God to redeem humanity, Jesus went upon a holy mountain (with quite a history), next to the Holy City, and there accepted his mission. It was only fitting that in submitting to the will of God, Jesus kept the disciples centered upon the praise and glory of the Most High God by singing a hymn.
What does all this mean for us? We too are called to give glory to God with hymns and songs of praise, and in holy places—wherever the Lord is present is a holy place. Wherever you walk this day and whatever you are called to do for the Lord, count it a holy place. Replicate the walk of Jesus in word, deed, and song. Submit to the One who, while on the Mount of Olives and facing his impending death, gave God praise in the middle of the moment.
“O Lord God, you are so faithful. Even when I turn away, your love remains. You are a good and loving Father, and I praise your name. You are high and lifted up, and my heart sings songs to your name. Come now, Holy Spirit, fall upon your people. Help us accomplish your purposes but also to rest in your presence. I love you, Lord, and praise your holy name. For you are good, and your love endures forever.” Amen.