2anger and paranoia set out and killed all male babies two years old or younger. This toois part of our Christmas story. The part of the story where the baby Messiah had to fleeand remaining families suffered the consequences. So if it is true that praise and worshipis the beginning, middle and end of our faith, even in these stories, then we must learn adeeper, more intimate and extensive expression.Psalm 148, rather than being a pleasant repetitive hymn is a rigorous andsearching commentary on worship and also implicitly on idolatry. This psalm reminds usthat praise is not so much about where we think we should be or what things in our lifeshould be like but rather how we are orientated in where we are. The psalm beginssimply with an invitation,
Praise the Lord
. We can hear and respond to this invitationwherever we are at in life. What follows is a prayerful and reflective Psalm that is not just telling us how all reality offers praise to God. It is rather inviting us to examine our life and be aware of things that we give praise to. This invitation allows us to pause andwalk through and take account of our life. And what better time that at the end and the beginning of a year. The Psalmist begins in the high places.
Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his hosts. Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars. Praise him, you highest heavensand you waters above the skies. Let them praise the name of the LORD, for at his command they were created,and he established them for ever and ever—
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