Advent-Christmas Devotions
Thursday, December 4
Psalm 72:18-19
18 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
who alone does wondrous things.
19 Blessed be his glorious name forever;
may his glory fill the whole earth.
Amen and Amen.
“ 18 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, …”
When Zechariah celebrates the birth of his son John (the Baptist), he begins his canticle of praise with these words: “Blessed by the Lord, the God of Israel”. They echo parts of other psalms and prayers from the Hebrew Scriptures. In short, they serve as an ancient reminder of who is truly worthy of all honor and praise.
Unfortunately, in today’s culture, adoration, accolades, and praise are often heaped upon individuals who are less than worthy. Whether that person is an athlete, entertainer, pundit, or politician, the honor and praise bestowed upon them at times surpasses that given to the Lord. Such extravagances seem to be unwarranted.
Praising others for their work, ideals, or faith is helpful. It can lift a person up, encourage them, and inspire them to great things. However, to go “overboard” with the accolades such that they rival those reserved for the Lord is to go too far. God alone is to be praised and glorified above all. After all, as the psalmist writes: God alone does wondrous things… and God’s glory fills the whole earth.
Prayer: Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel. You alone are worthy of glory and honor and praise. Amen.