“From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.” Psalms 113:3 (NIV)
Read Psalms 113:1-9
It may surprise some that I haven’t always been a Methodist. In my youth, I was raised in the evangelical Pentecostal tradition. One of the things I remember was the unique way members would greet one another by saying, “Praise the Lord!”
This greeting, “Praise the Lord,” is more than just a phrase; it is a call to worship and a reminder of God’s constant presence and goodness. Psalm 113 beautifully captures this sentiment: “Praise the Lord. Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore. From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.” (Psalm 113:1-3). This psalm encourages us to recognize God’s greatness and His acts of mercy and compassion, lifting the needy and raising the poor from the dust.
In the United Methodist Church, we echo this sentiment each Sunday in The Great Thanksgiving of Communion, proclaiming, “It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.” This affirmation reminds us that giving thanks and praising God is not just an occasional act but a continuous, joyful response to His unending grace and love from East to West.
By greeting one another with ‘Praise the Lord,’ we acknowledge God’s presence in our lives and encourage each other to live in a state of gratitude and worship. It is a good thing because it aligns our hearts with God’s will, fosters a spirit of community, and keeps us mindful of His blessings, no matter the circumstances."
Gracious and loving God, we come before You with hearts full of praise and thanksgiving. We thank You for Your constant presence in our lives and the many blessings You bestow upon us daily. Help us always remember to praise You, not just in times of joy but also in times of challenge. May our words and actions reflect Your love and grace, and may we encourage one another to live in a spirit of gratitude and worship. Guide us, Lord, as we seek to align our hearts with Your will and foster a community that glorifies Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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