1 June | EVERYONE
“Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture." Psalm 100: 1-3
He was always singing since he was a child. Music ran through his veins. He was born to sing. Early in his career, he exalted the name of Jesus. He recognized God as the giver of all that was good in him. Then came fame, the applause, and money. He forgot that his voice was a talent God had entrusted to him. He lost himself in the jungle of human recognition, the lights, and glories of this world. He stopped glorifying the name of the Creator and accepted glory for himself.
He had a sad ending. On the tragic morning of Monday, 17 August, 1977, his body was found on the bathroom floor of the hotel where he was staying. He had died of an overdose of barbiturates. Some believed he took his own life.
Today's verse challenges us to sing. But after the verb "shout" comes the verb "serve," which gives meaning to singing. If the song is the expression of a grateful heart that is willing to serve, it does good to the spirit. The person who sings wants to keep living, and their difficulties become small. By acknowledging that there is an Almighty God, you know that you are not alone and that nothing and no one will be able to destroy you.
Storms can come. In this world, God's children may go through fierce storms, but if they recognize that they are God's people and sheep of His pasture, they need not fear. His lips will not express lamentations but hymns of praise and gratitude for the wonderful deeds of the Creator.
Take Action
Whoever truly follows God cannot but be joyful. They will go through hard times, but their usual tendency will be joy and not pessimism. Praise to the Lord will come naturally and spontaneously to them as will their vocation of service. Sing the hymn "Make a Joyful Shout" (if possible, with your family).