Pause

Think of this for a moment: We are all foreigners in the kingdom of God. No one is native to the place where God reigns; we are all invited and, by grace, we are made citizens.

We do well to keep this in mind as we encounter every person along our way. Each of them is no more "the other" to God than we are.

This inclusive God invites you again today to stand in the Presence, to dwell in God's land.

Listen

O sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be revered above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.

Psalm 96:1-6

Think

It happens at graduations, plays, sporting events, concerts, and awards ceremonies. It is called a standing ovation – the moment when we recognize and give praise for greatness and hard work. Everyone stops what they are doing to stand up, clap, and cheer for what has been done.

Sometimes in the busyness of our lives we forget to stop and give God a standing ovation for all God’s greatness. Just stop and think of all that God has created – the mountains, oceans, the Grand Canyon, a butterfly, oxygen. Even people who do not know God can stand in awe of the wonder and beauty of creation.

When those who do not know God stand on the edge of the Grand Canyon and say, “This is amazing,” it is in that moment that we know that the whole earth is declaring God’s glory. The mountains and trees are testifying to God’s splendor – just in being. Take some time to be in awe of how creation around you is giving God a standing ovation – and join in.

Brenda Thompson

Pray

Creator, I praise you for your amazing creation. I pray that even those who do not know you will recognize that the whole earth is applauding your masterpiece. Amen

Go

Travel through this day
Knowing there is no confining
The love of God,
And no borders to cross
Between you and God's presence.

Pray that your life might also be
So open
That God's love in you knows
No barriers,
Providing free passage for others.