By Pastor Steve Nickodemus
A Song of Praise!
You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.
“Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting.”
Psalm 147:1 English Standard Version
We took Jim out for his 90th birthday. And everyone in the restaurant sang “Happy Birthday”, celebrating this man’s life. Jim was delighted and joyful, enjoying that moment. What most people didn’t know was that Jim had just finished his autobiography, detailing his many adventures, his joys and accomplishments and his trials and failures.
But the most important parts of his biography are Jim’s comments at the end of each chapter. In those comments Jim gives glory to God. He praises the Lord for finding and redeeming him, for forgiving his sins and making him a son of God in Jesus Christ. He confesses his sins and He bears witness to the Lord’s mercy and love. Jim’s story connects with God’s story, a story of redemption and grace.
Jim’s purpose in writing his story was not to glorify himself, but to “sing praises” of God’s goodness in his life. Are you singing praises to God for His goodness? Are you excited to tell others the story of the great things God has done for you and for all people?
Today is a day to celebrate! Perhaps your life may have difficulties and setbacks, perhaps you may have failed in many ways. But you can always celebrate the goodness of God! You can always praise Him for His forgiveness and faithfulness. For it is not just on birthdays or special events that we can celebrate, but it is every day we can celebrate our Lord, His death and resurrection for us!
Lord, we praise You for Your goodness, Your faithfulness, Your forgiveness and love. Please forgive me when I do not celebrate You. Thank You for Your kindness in Christ Jesus, our Lord! I praise You! Amen.
Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church Colorado Springs, Colorado
