Christianity Oasis Forum

[cimi]

June 9

| Bible in a Year: 2 Chronicles 32-33; John 18:19-40

Our Reason for Joy


READ PSALM 149:1–5
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Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people
of Zion be glad in their King.
Psalm 149:2
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When the school year began a few years ago, fourteen-year-old C.J. would hop off the bus every afternoon and dance down his driveway. His mom recorded and shared videos of C.J.’s after-school boogie time. He danced because he enjoyed life and “making people happy” with every move. One day, two garbage collectors took time out of their busy work schedule to stomp, spin, and sway with the young boy who inspires others to dance with him. This trio demonstrates the power of sincere and infectious joy.

The writer of Psalm 149 describes the original source of enduring and unconditional joy—God. The psalmist encourages God’s people to join together when we can and “sing to the Lord a new song” (v. 1). He invites Israel to “rejoice in their Maker” and “be glad in their King” (v. 2). He calls us to worship Him with dancing and music (vv. 1-3). Why? Because “the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory” (v. 4).

Our adoring Father created us and sustains the universe. He delights in us just because we’re His beloved children. He designed us, knows us, and invites us into a personal relationship with Him. What an honor! Our loving and living God is our reason for everlasting joy. We can rejoice in the gift of His constant presence and be grateful for every day our Maker has given us.

By Xochitl Dixon
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REFLECT & PRAY
Thanks for loving us, delighting in us, and knowing us, God. Learn
more about what the Christian faith teaches about God.

Why does knowing God delights in us encourage joy in all circumstances?
How can you express your joy in the Lord throughout the day?


>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>SCRIPTURE INSIGHT<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Biblical scholars aren’t certain when Psalm 149 was written or how it was used in worship, but one possibility is that it originated for use in an annual celebration of Israel’s God (YHWH, the Lord) enthroned as the King of the universe (see v. 2). Psalm 149 is the fourth of five psalms (Psalm 146-150) that begin and end with the phrase “Praise the Lord.” In a way, these five psalms function as a conclusion or summary of the entire book of Psalms, ending on a resounding note of praise for God’s deliverance and presence with His people. Monica La Rose