On this First Sunday after Christmas we will read from the Book of Psalms: Psalm 148. This psalm is a hymn of praise for God and all that God has made. In a time of many challenges in our world and for our world, this psalm reminds us that God has created all things with intentional care and love, and that as the appointed stewards of God's creation, all humanity is called to give the same caring intention toward God's creation. We will explore the idea of being God's stewards of creation, and not just that it gives us a "special status" but, more importantly, it gives us a "special responsibility" to care for everything God has created.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Book of Psalms. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Psalm 148).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Read the assigned Scripture for the week: Psalm 148. Reflect on the words of praise for God the Creator, and also reflect on the order in which the many parts of the cosmos are presented, with humanity listed at the end. How might the order of the Psalm have some meaning?
After reading the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, reflect on the following question: what difference does it make that God's people are not called to embrace a special status, but rather a special responsibility?
After reading the "WHERE..." paragraph below, reflect on the following: what do you think it means to have a special responsibility to praise God by enabling the rest of creation to be what God has called it to be?
After reading the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below, consider the phrase "raised up a horn" which means to have a "special dignity" bestowed upon someone. How has the special dignity given to humanity by God made all people the ones who should praise God, on behalf of all living creatures? In your life, do you feel this special responsibility, and if so, how are ways to show this praise?
After reading the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on the particular challenge of praising all things of God's creation, while at the same time, realizing that there are elements of creation that cause great harm and disruption to people, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters. How can we praise and mourn at the same time?
