Show Don't Tell: Psalm 87

Instead of saying "Zion is the birthplace of all nations," hear the roll call of enemies. Of the Sons of Korah. "He has founded his city on the holy mountain. The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the other dwellings of Jacob." Gates of Zion—loved above all other holy sites. "Glorious things are said of you, city of God." Seven verses of compressed glory. Then the astonishing list: "I will record Rahab and Babylon among those who acknowledge me—Philistia too, and Tyre, along with Cush—and will say, 'This one was born in Zion.'" Rahab—poetic name for Egypt. Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, Cush—all enemies of Israel, all claimed as Zion-born. "Indeed, of Zion it will be said, 'This one and that one were born in her, and the Most High himself will establish her.' The LORD will write in the register of the peoples: 'This one was born in Zion.'" Census of the nations—all recorded as Zion-born. "As they make music they will sing, 'All my fountains are in you.'" Singers celebrating—their source is Zion. Universal belonging through the city of God.