Today's Scripture Reflection
Peter Crisafulli, Minister of Music
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy Name.
Psalm 103:1

Trivia question - though really not at all trivial: What well-known hymn of praise comes to mind when reading the above opening of Psalm 103?

Some years ago, a survey of congregations across the country revealed that “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” (#390 in our hymnal) is one of the most popular, beloved, and often used hymns of praise used for worship services in recent years.

Perhaps this particular choice of hymn didn’t immediately come to mind from the above quoted verse of psalmody: yet, it is based on Psalm 103 as well as Psalm 150. Let’s take a closer look.

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation; O my soul, praise him, for he is thy health and salvation: join the great throng, psaltery, organ, and song, sounding in glad adoration.

Praise to the Lord; over all things he gloriously reigneth: borne as on eagle-wings, safely his saints he sustaineth. Hast thou not seen how all thou neediest hath been granted in what he ordaineth?

Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy way and defend thee; surely his goodness and mercy shall ever attend thee; ponder anew what the Almighty can do, who with his love doth befriend thee.

Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore him! All that hath life and breath come now with praises before him! Let the amen sound from his people again; gladly for ever adore him.
Try reading through Psalm 103, especially vv. 1-6, and Psalm 150. Then read the words of the hymn. You will find echoes of these psalms throughout.

Notice how each stanza opens with the arresting phrase, “Praise to the Lord!” The exuberant tune with its opening trumpet-like motif gives wings to these powerful words. And then notice how after this opening proclamation each stanza expounds on attributes of God that are praise-worthy. (Of course, no hymn of human composition could ever hope to come close to expounding all of the praise-worthy attributes of God!)

But when we sing this hymn, we give praise to God, recounting some of His wonderful attributes that give us good reason to offer praise. Our God is a God who heals us, who provides for us, and who defends us. Praise the Lord, indeed!

God bless you!
Peter
An Image to Inspire
Let Us Pray
Adapted from "A Song of Creation"
Lord, to you I ascribe all glory: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I praise you and highly exalt you for ever. In the firmament of your power, Lord, I ascribe to you all glory. I praise you and highly exalt you for ever. Amen.
We are here for you. If you need help,
please call (301) 654-2488.
Looking for more?