Psalm 98 - Make a joyful noise

PSALM 98:1-9¹   O sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things. His right hand and his holy arm have gained him victory. ²   The LORD has made known his victory; he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations. ³   He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God.⁴   Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises. ⁵   Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody. ⁶   With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the LORD.⁷   Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it. ⁸   Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy ⁹   at the presence of the LORD, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.

• Light a candle to remember Christ's presence with you.
• Sit five to fifteen minutes in silent meditation paying attention to the deep breath.
• As you pay attention to the breath, inhale the goodness of God.
• Exhale that which is not good.
• Inhale God's love.
• Exhale hatred.
• Inhale joy.
• Exhale fear.
• Let go of anything keeping you from God.
• Open yourself as much as possible to God.
• Continue to pay attention to your breath.
• Allow a new song to arise from within you.
• How do you glorify God?
• What do you hear?
• What words come to you?
• What love arises?
• Look around you.  What else do you see praising God?
• How do others praise God?
• How does the world praise God?
• How does the earth praise God?
• Savor this time of praise and glory.
• Carry it with you today.
• As you encounter others, notice how others praise God.
• Give thanks to God for this time to sing a new song, for this time in prayer and for any new insights you have received.
• Share as you feel led in the reply box below.

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, May 13, 2012, the Sixth Sunday of Easter Year BActs 10:44-48Psalm 98:1-91 John 5:1-6John 15:9-17If you use these prayers in other groups, please give credit to author. Permission to use in not-for-profit settings The Rev. Lil Smith, M.Div., DASD.