The Great In Spite Of
September 26, 2010
Excerpt from Psalm 146
"I will praise the Lord as long as a I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long."
Reflection by Anthony B. Robinson
I was a stranger in an unfamiliar city, attending a conference. I was far from home and, in the words of Jesus of Martha, I was "anxious about many things."
But it was Sunday and I went to worship in a nearby church. I was in an unfamiliar church among people I did not know. And yet, as we rose to join in the opening hymn, something happened. I was caught up in praise.
Lost, I was found. Found in the big story of God's grace and purpose. My voice was set loose in praise and a sense of wonder and gratitude was renewed in my heart.
The praise of God invites us to cease our frequent and restless preoccupation with ourselves. Praise of God challenges our natural self-centeredness and sense of accumulated grievance. Praise invites us to turn our attention to what makes life good and to the generosity we have experienced.
That Sunday, in a strange city and church, far from home, my voice was set loose in praise of God. Losing myself in praise of God, I was found.
At least sometimes, praise of God is a great "in spite of." In spite of the evidence to the contrary, our praise dares to assert God's presence, God's power and God's faithfulness. I hope that today you will sing that great, defiant, "In spite of," and live your week in that spirit of trust and hope.
Prayer
Lord, the fir tree's uplifted branches are as hands raised in praise. The song of the birds this morning is a song of praise. The rushing water of the creek babbles your glory. When all creation praises you, do not let me be found mute or silent. Amen.
