On Wings Of Eagles

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Tuesday, December 3, 2019

“Hymn of Joy”


Psalm 148:3-5 (ESV)
3 Praise him, sun and moon,
    praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens,
    and you waters above the heavens!
5 Let them praise the name of the Lord!
    For he commanded and they were created.

Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee
God of glory, Lord of love
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee
Opening to the sun above
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness
Drive the dark of doubt away
Giver of immortal gladness
Fill us with the light of day


Throughout “Hymn of Joy” is imagery describing God’s creation singing out in joy and worship. The idea that creation plays a part in the worship of God is central in many passages of Scripture, such as the Psalm 148, which as a psalm focuses almost exclusively on this concept, like our verse for the day.

What a wonderful idea – everything can participate in the glorification of God – the creator of all things!

But… what does this actually mean for our everyday life?

Is this just flowery, pretty language? A poetic response to our Maker? Or could there be more to it?

The marvelous elements of nature – the mountains, the oceans, the forests, the stars – may not actually speak, or engage in worship – but they do inspire human beings.

We can appreciate God’s creation because we have been made in God’s image.
We’re the creatures God appointed to be stewards of nature – and we are the ones who can see the glory of God in what he has created.

God has given us a remarkable world to live in, and we can find his joy, peace, and power in what he’s made for us.

Everywhere we look – we can see the hand of God. It’s a remarkable, profound, easily-taken-for-granted gift bestowed upon us.

Although the effects of sin have destroyed, polluted, corrupted – God’s strength, creativity, and glory can be seen in all that he has made.

This Christmas season, as you go about your business, attending to friends, family and celebration – keep your eyes open. Look for God in all moments and places. When you look around you, at both nature and people…what do you see?

Christmas is a time for reflection and introspection. A chance to step back and appreciate what you have and thank God for it.

I pray that, much like this song says, that your, “Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee.”

Dear Lord, as we forward in joy this Christmas, we pray that You will let our eyes and minds to see You everywhere we look. We pray that we can find You in the midst of the things You have created. In the Name of Jesus,  Amen.

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