Psalm 24 speaks of a joyous occasion. King David was bringing the Ark (a symbol of God's presence - a rectangular chest made of acacia wood and covered with gold; containing the 2 tablets of the 10 commandments, a pot of manna and Aaron's rod) to Jerusalem, Israel's royal city.

In the processional liturgy, the people were reminded of Who God is, i.e. God is the Creator of the whole earth; and as Creator, God owns the whole earth. So, as the people climb up the hill to the Temple, the priest asks, "Who shall climb the mountain of the Lord? Who shall stand in His holy place?" (v 3). And the answer is, "The one with clean hands and pure heart, who desires not worthless things" (v 4).

How may we have "clean hands" and "pure heart"? It is to endeavor in our everyday life to act justly and have holy intentions towards God, neighbour, and creation.

Let us daily come into God's presence with "clean hands" and "pure heart", not desiring "worthless things" (v 4) – that we may receive God's blessing, reward, and vindication, as we seek the face of God" (vv 5-6).