December 17
For the director of music. A song. A psalm.
Shout for joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious.
Psalm 66:1-2
Christmas Eve is fast approaching, and I imagine that most of us are excited, but also busy, stressed, worried, tired…just plain overwhelmed! I’m reminded of what my childhood friend said when our teacher asked: "What do you do when you feel overwhelmed?” Without skipping a beat, she declared: “I sing!” She sings! How beautifully simple is that?! Did you know that singing is good for your mental wellbeing? When people sing, speech impediments can disappear, regional accents can disappear, and stress levels go down. Singing can unite people and lift our spirits. Music and singing are a wonderful gift from God!
During the third week in Advent, we focus on JOY and we remember to REJOICE. Psalm 66 is a community hymn that encourages us to shout for joy to God for our many blessings and to SING the glory of his name! What is your favorite Christmas song? I encourage you to burst into song - lift your voice to God - sing when you feel the hectic pace of this season beginning to steal your joy. Sing like no one (except God) is listening!
Prayer: Loving God, thank you for the gift of music and singing. May we remember to slow down when things feel overwhelming and lift up our voices in praise to you! Help us to share these gifts with one another while we wait for the excitement of Christmas Day. Amen.
Sally Zeillmann
Comments