Listen

All that you have made gives thanks to you, Lord; all your faithful ones bless you! They speak of the glory of your kingdom; they talk all about your power, to inform all human beings about God’s power and the majestic glory of God’s kingdom. Your kingdom is a kingship that lasts forever; your rule endures for all generations. The Lord is trustworthy in all that he says, faithful in all that he does.

Psalm 145:10-13

Think

Think about your most recently played songs. The albums and playlists that fill your spirit with music to uplift, comfort, or simply stir movement in your body. Music has the power to move us, and the psalms are just that—lyrical poetry intended to be sung. It’s the album, if you will, of our scriptures. All sorts of songs are found in this lengthy album of 150 psalms. Today’s psalm is one of joy and thanksgiving. It’s a clap-your-hands, praise-the-Lord, stomp-your-feet, move around, and shout for joy psalm.

No matter the circumstances surrounding us, even if they cause us heartbreak, this psalm invites us to turn our attention toward the goodness of God that lasts. The lyrical words invite us to consider the ways of faithfulness, power that helps, and a world where God’s glory outshines even the dullest or most painful of days. What an invitation. May you consider saying yes to it. May your spirit join in the song and dance, turning your attention toward a God who so loves you. Always.

Aram Feinberg

Question to Ponder:

What song(s) lift up your spirits?

Pray

God, thank you for songs of praise, for music that inspires, and for your love that keeps me moving forward together with others. Help me this day to turn my attention toward your love. And in doing so, may I turn my attention toward someone who could use some of that holy love this very day. Amen.

Go

May the God of love bless you and keep you.

May Jesus the Christ smile upon you and be gracious toward you.

And may the Spirit of truth lead you in the path of wisdom and peace.

And God’s people say: Amen.