Psalm 96

Not every day is bleak.

We are helped by the presence of the faithful around us. We hear their voices, see their faces, feel their presence, and we remember the love of the Almighty.

Perhaps we hear a new song of praise to God that we had not heard before. And we learn to sing that new song to the Lord. Perhaps we remember the Lord.

The Lord God is not only the God of Israel. He is the God of the whole earth. When He sent His Son to be a Suffering Servant for us, it was not enough for Him only to save the lost among the descendants of Jacob. His Father made Him a Light to the nations. Now people all over the world are worshiping God through Jesus, the Messiah.

All over the earth people sing to the God of the Jews. They bless His Name. They tell other people about His salvation. Not only can they speak about the way that the Lord rescued His people out of bondage in Egypt; they can tell the world about how they were rescued from sin and death through the Lamb of God who came to take away the sins of the world.

When we are by ourselves, lost in our problems, stuck in the present moment, we forget. Even the mere anticipation of a brighter day and a more communal experience of worship with those who we love can change our disposition, and help us to remember the greatness and glory of God.

Maybe that is why we are told to set our mind on things that are above, where Christ is. There is a day coming when we will be together in the presence of the Lord. That day is happening already for all those who are with Him in the heavens. Even the contemplation of that fact can help us to participate in their joy now.

Idols are not being worshiped in heaven today. Demons are not receiving praise there. In heaven, the Lord is shining forth in the gory of His being. He is majestic and beautiful in the sanctuary of His chosen people.

Worship is not solitary confinement. It is an experience of community and openness; an openness that brings us beyond the limits of this vast present creation we call the universe.

Heaven calls out to the earth today. Heaven's inhabitants urge the nations on in the praise of the God of Israel.

Heaven knows all about Jesus Christ. After His resurrection He ascended on high. He reigns there as the true King over all. From that majestic height, He gives gifts to people.

Heaven will not stay in heaven forever. The Messiah is bringing heaven to earth. He will judge the peoples of the earth. He will establish His righteousness and justice in a renewed world.

Then we will know the fullness of worship. Then all the peoples will praise Him. Then the centuries of worshipers will be together in perfect community. Even the seas, the fields, and all the trees of the forest will sing for joy.

Don't be alone today, even if you are on a sickbed. Reach out through Jesus to heaven and then back again to the new heavens and earth. Glorify the Lord together with all His people.