"Praise the Lord. Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of his faithful people. Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in their King. Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with timbrel and harp. For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory."

Psalm 149:1-4

Possibly, this Psalm 149, was composed in the wake of a military victory or following the exile, this song celebrates the astonishing choice of the Lord. He has selected Israel, a seemingly insignificant people on the world stage, to be his own. This God, then and now, honors the humble, favors the faithful. He takes pleasure in those whom no one notices much. For the weak and overlooked, for those living in shame, this public delight in them is life-changing. We are so happy because Jesus is here. We feel love. We feel communion.’ God’s chosen people can sing with hope, especially those afflicted by wicked tyrants and systemic injustice. God cares. He fights for them. Their tormentors, who seem invincible, will be put to shame. Evil will not go unpunished. God’s very honor is at stake.

Wherever you are today and however you feel, choose a phrase: ‘be glad’, ‘make music’, ‘a new song’, ‘rejoice in this honor’. Savor it. Relish his delight in you. Your Maker. Your King.

Closing Prayer

I confess, Father, that my prayers are often more about what I think I need than focused on your goodness to me. Help me change my perspective so that my life is filled with thanksgiving

(edited from Encounter with God)