Psalm 145:1-8 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 145:1-8 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever.
Verse 2Every day I will bless you, and praise your name forever and ever.
Verse 3Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable.
Verse 4One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
Verse 5On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
Verse 6The might of your awesome deeds shall be proclaimed, and I will declare your greatness.
Verse 7They shall celebrate the fame of your abundant goodness, and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.
Verse 8The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
Devotion
In many churches, the kids' education time and worship time coincide, making it almost impossible for families to worship together. I was a single mom when my kids were little so I get it. I had a hard time getting anything out of the sermon while trying to keep my kids quiet and still. When they went off to class, I could relax and concentrate. Sometimes we feel like the church should give parents a break.
But the idea of separating kids from families and the rest of the faith community in worship isn't biblical. If we never take our kids to a restaurant, they won't know the manners and delights of eating out; the same is true for worship. This psalm tells us that "one generation shall laud your works to another." Let's praise God with our children by our side! The impact will resonate for generations.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for families. May each generation contribute its chapter of praise so that together we make up an extraordinary history and story of lauding your name. Amen.