Sunday, August 21, 2016

Today’s Reading  |  Psalm 150

Praise the Lord! Praise God in his sanctuary;
   praise him in his mighty firmament!
Praise him for his mighty deeds;
   praise him according to his surpassing greatness!

Praise him with trumpet sound;
   praise him with lute and harp!
Praise him with tambourine and dance;
   praise him with strings and pipe!
Praise him with clanging cymbals;
   praise him with loud clashing cymbals!
Let everything that breathes praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord! (NRSV)

Reflection
Psalm 150, the last of the psalms, emphasizes praise to God. His marvelous work is evident in our sanctuary, in nature, and in the acts of greatness that impact our lives. This psalm urges us to enthusiastically praise God. While contemplating this devotion, I looked around me. I opened my mind, my eyes and ears, and my heart. Instead of being a commitment, the writing of this devotion became a gift. I became very aware of the means we use to demonstrate praise. I witnessed God’s acts of greatness. Perhaps I was taking much for granted. Perhaps we all are.

I come to our church sanctuary. Worship services evidence praise as we join together in song, listen to choirs and instrumental music, share prayers, and internalize sermons. Outreach programs involve youth in dance and performance arts. Young people are giving praise and sharing their gifts. Within the community, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus were magical as they performed Te Deum by Anton Bruckner. (Another of Bruckner’s works is Psalm 150.)

I listened to the birds singing and the waves lapping the shores of Lake Michigan. I sat outside with family on a beautiful summer evening and noticed the full moon overhead lighting up the city’s skyline. I reveled in the birth of my first great-niece, a namesake: a joy I thought I would never know.

All around me there is evidence of praise to God. I reflect. Have I noticed? Do I routinely praise God for his greatness and gifts that have touched my life? I vow to be more intentional going forward.

Prayer
Dear Lord, may we all praise God. May every creature employ every means and opportunity available to offer praise. We are truly blessed by your gifts. Amen.

Written by Eloise Foster, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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