In many Christian Churches around the world, one of the scripture passages read yesterday was Psalm 105:1-6. It is a beautiful Psalm that sees God in all of life. As I meditated on these verses coming to work on the train this morning, I saw three things that were helpful to me.
- "Give thanks to the Lord."
The so called "attitude of gratitude" is very powerful. When you start thinking "thankful" a smile comes on your face and tensions ease. Other people pick it up and smile back. Thankful helps us be humble. It gets us out of ourselves. We can see what God has done, what others have done for us, and that life is good. Even on bad days.
- "Tell of His wonderful works."
The other day we were at the ocean watching and feeling the power of rolling waves. I stepped into my backyard and there was a magnificent 8 point buck watching me (and unfortunately eating our flowers). The coo and smile of a baby. A thank you note from a grandchild. The warmth and energy of worship at Marble. God's amazing love comes from so many places.
- "Seek His presence continually."
I would use a different verb if I were writing this Psalm. I don't think we need to "seek" His presence. He is not hiding or elusive. I would use, "be open" to His presence. His presence is there... it is up to us to "open our eyes and our hearts."
|