OCT. 7, 2013
Public
Praise
Read: Psalm 96
Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders
among all peoples. —Psalm 96:3
I
love the YouTube video of people in a food court of a mall, who in the midst of
their ordinary lives were suddenly interrupted by someone who stood up and
boldly began singing the “Hallelujah Chorus.” To the surprise of everyone,
another person got up and joined the chorus, and then another, and another.
Soon the food court was resounding with the celebrative harmonies of Handel’s
masterpiece. A local opera company had planted their singers in strategic
places so that they could joyfully interject the glory of God into the everyday
lives of lunching shoppers.
Every
time I watch that video, it moves me to tears. It reminds me that bringing the
glory of God into the ordinary situations of our world through the beautiful
harmonies of Christlikeness is exactly what we are called to do. Think of
intentionally interjecting God’s grace into a situation where some undeserving
soul needs a second chance; of sharing the love of Christ with someone who is
needy; of being the hands of Jesus that lift up a weary friend; or of bringing
peace to a confusing and chaotic situation.
As
the psalmist reminds us, we have the high and holy privilege of declaring “His
glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples” (Ps. 96:3).
Thank You, Lord, for filling us with the capacity to take
Your glory “public” through the way we act and react
toward others. Give us the grace to interject the surprising
beauty of Your wonderful ways into each encounter.
Surprise your world with the wonders of Christ shining through
you!
Source: Our Daily Bread 2013
