Raise a shout

 

Psalm 100

People of God, we are noise makers. At least, the psalmist encourages us to be. He says, "Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth" (Psalm 100:1). All people from all nations share the same invitation because we know God's goodness. It is steadfast and endures for all generations. And we know we belong to God. As a result, our lives are an ongoing praise service. Now, we often joke about our singing not being quite in tune, but at least being a noise. I'm someone who resembles that remark. So, I appreciate that even non-singers can praise with joy and conviction. Praise isn't limited by your vocal range. But let me encourage you to think of your joyful noise a little differently. Keep singing, mind you. In fact, sing more. When you join the church in worship, sing like you want heaven to hear you. Like you've been paying attention to how good God has been to you. Also, know that the psalmist isn't just talking about singing. A literal translation of Psalm 100:1 is: Raise a shout. A shout can be a song or a hymn, but it can also be a victory cry or an affirmation of some sort. In Joshua 6, the people of God approached Jericho. If you recall that story, they were to march around the walls of the city six days. Joshua told them to not utter a word as they did (Joshua 6:10). On the seventh day, they'd hear the trumpets blast. Then, anticipating the victory God would give them, and knowing how God had already led them, their orders were to shout. Of course, I understand how shouting as worship might disturb some of our reverent sensibilities. But sometimes the most reverent act of worship is raising your voice to disrupt the silence of complacency and apathy around us (or within us).  Is there a wall you're walking around? What if today's the day to raise a shout and expect God's victory? Stay blessed...john