Contagious Joy!

Psalm 100:1-5
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. (KJV)

Years ago, Bill Gaither and his wife Gloria produced a record titled I Am a Promise. My daughters often listened to the upbeat praise songs written for kids and to the children who recited Psalm 100:1-5. There was something pure about the sweet voices speaking David's words.

This week my daughter shared a short video of my youngest granddaughter (14 months old) standing in junior church dancing and clapping to a praise song. Talk about precious,  her joy was contagious. She moved with enthusiasm and freedom (and she was so adorable!)

Children don't hesitate to sing out or shout about Jesus' love. They aren't afraid. As I watched Ella Cate dance, I found myself thanking God that my grandchildren still have the freedom to worship. I pray the freedom we have is never taken away. And I don't want to take it for granted. My challenge this week--dance like no one is watching, sing like no one but God is listening, make worship totally about Him, and say prayers of thanksgiving every day. " For the Lord is good and his love endures forever..." 

Even the Moon Praises Him

Psalm 148:3-6
Praise him, sun and moon;
    praise him, all you shining stars.
Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies.

 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
    for at his command they were created,
and he established them forever and ever—
    he issued a decree that will never pass away.

A heavy blanket of snow covered the fields as we drove along the country road. The sky graduated to an inky black and the moon, as round as a bright golden ball, cast its light. No matter where we traveled, it seemed the moon followed us. The brightness made us look to the heavens and admire the work of God. He created the round orb to reflect light on the earth at night. One more way He cared for us.

The Psalm says God created all the heavenly bodies. The sun, moon, and stars each praise Him. If these objects can light the world and show God glory, what keeps us from praising Him daily. God made so much for us to enjoy. When I saw the low hanging moon I stood in awe. And the sun and the stars…they’re just as fascinating. As winter gives way to spring (it will come, I promise) look at God’s creation and rejoice with him. Praise the Lord for the beauty he gives each day.