Lectionary readings for today:
Morning Ps. 50, 147:1-11
Evening Ps. 53, 17
Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp.
Psalm 147: 1, 7
Ah, the power of song!
There are songs mothers sing to their babies to lull them to sleep, to calm their fears, or to brighten their moods. There are songs that children sing at play, like “Ring around the Rosey” or “London Bridges falling down”. There are love songs that convey feelings of attraction. Some songs wake up our emotions and bind us together, like the ‘Fight Song’ at a football game or “We Shall Overcome” at an equal rights rally.
Songs tell stories. They convey emotion. Songs get your attention and help you remember.
In our worship services, we sing various hymns of praise including one special hymn that we sing at almost every service:
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise God, all creatures here below;
Praise God above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Sing praises to God. But if you can’t sing, then make a joyful noise. And if a joyful noise is impossible, then praise God with a song in your heart.
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Dear God, we thank you for all the good things you have done for us and we ask that you continue to give us voice to sing your praises.
-Martha Cartwright
Northminster Presbyterian Church 