We
are called to "worship God" (Revelation 19:10). Our worship is to be
with reverence and joy. "Be still: "This is the call for reverence
(Nehemiah 8:11). Alongside this reverence, there is to be joy: "The joy
of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). We are to "rejoice" in
the Lord (Revelation 18:20). This joy is not a superficial emotion. It
is accompanied by the reverence which comes from taking seriously the
"woe" that is pronounced on the "great city" that lives for this world
only (Revelation 18:19). Joyful worship arises from "a great multitude
in heaven" (Revelation 19:1). Four times, in Revelation 19, we read,
"Hallelujah!" (Revelation 19:1,3,4,6). "Hallelujah" means 'Praise the
Lord.' Our praise is to be characterized by joy: "Let us rejoice and be
glad and give Him glory!" (Revelation 19:7). This joy is grounded in an
awe-inspiring face: "Our Lord God Almighty reigns" (Revelation 19:6).
"Praise the Lord": These are the first words and the message of Psalm
148. The 'choir' which praises the Lord is truly astonishing (Psalm
148:1-4). Our song of praise participates in the song of praise which
arises from God's whole creation. This inspires us to worship Him, more
truly and more fully.
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you" (Isaiah 60:1). * Let the light of Christ shine. * Let the words of Scripture lead to thoughts of the Saviour. * In Christ, we are called to salvation, sanctification and service. * Be wise – worship the Saviour. Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:1-7,10-14; Eph 3:1-12; Mt 2:1-12
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