Psalm 150:3-5

Psalm 150:3-5

Praise Him!

Although it means we end the Psalm rather more abruptly than we hoped, it would be a bit of a task to write daily thoughts about the next 3 verses! They are basically saying one thing, “Let the whole of the orchestra praise the Lord!” So, eight instruments are mentioned embracing wind, strings and percussion, and right slap-bang in the middle, is dancing! Praise music across the world has moved on from days of just church organs or pianos, which were mighty instruments of worship indeed. Modern congregations like to hear guitars and drums and keyboards and possibly a wind or brass instrument too! If we do not have the musicians, then we can watch and participate with online celebrations and we thank God for that! The one thing that has changed, that was unthinkable in my youth, is that dancing, movement and banner-waving are all legitimate and acceptable expressions of worship today. 

The other point that we should remember, even though we are near the end of the psalter, is that all Psalms were written to be sung, for modern-day readers that may be difficult because we simply have no access to the original music. However, attempts have been made to take texts from many Psalms and to put them to music, so let’s enjoy these and in so doing familiarise ourselves with the words. Maybe, someone, somewhere, is working, right now, in writing the music that would make these beautiful songs more accessible?

Let’s praise the Lord our God with music and song. Let’s play our instruments gladly if we have the gift to do so. Let’s make a joyful noise. Let’s ensure that God’s praises are heard across the world and that songs that glorify Him rise above the noise of the world’s music. Let’s just make a joyful sound and not worry too much if it’s not perfect! And above all, let’s free ourselves to dance before our Lord and to allow our bodies to express what is in our hearts. Hallelujah! Hallelujah!  

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