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25 Here in this great gathering for worship I have discovered this praise-life. And I'll do what I promised right here in front of the God-worshipers. 26 Down-and-outers sit at God's table and eat their fill. Everyone on the hunt for God is here, praising him. "Live it up, from head to toe. Don't ever quit!" 27 From the four corners of the earth people are coming to their senses, are running back to God. Long-lost families are falling on their faces before him. 28 God has taken charge; from now on he has the last word. 29 All the power-mongers are before him - worshiping! All the poor and powerless, too - worshiping! Along with those who never got it together - worshiping! 30 Our children and their children will get in on this As the word is passed along from parent to child. 31 Babies not yet conceived will hear the good news - that God does what he says. (Psalm 22:25-31 The Message Bible)
Imagine being at a friends house when s/he says, "Well, it's time for supper - you'll have to leave now." Awkward, no? Imagine being in a church when the minister informs those in church, "If you're not a member of this church you cannot take communion." Awkward again. But imagine a God who would say, "Not everyone is welcome to this table unless..." Well, our God has never said anything like that; in fact the second verse of the passage says, "Down-and-outers sit at God's table and eat their fill. Everyone on the hunt for God is here, praising Him." And later, the next verse, "From the four corners of the earth people are coming to their senses, are running back to God." This is the one true God; the God of all people, Who invites all, and welcomes all. No one is excluded.
The psalmist encourages a life of wholehearted worship—"Live it up, from head to toe. Don’t ever quit!" It's a call to unceasing praise, regardless of circumstances or challenges. For in worship, we acknowledge God's authority and celebrate His goodness.
Furthermore, the psalmist proclaims the universality of God's reign. From the four corners of the earth, people are returning to God, recognizing His sovereignty and bowing before Him in worship. It's a picture of restoration, reconciliation, and redemption.
As believers, you and me, are invited to join in this chorus of praise—to worship God with abandon, knowing that He reigns supreme over all creation. Our worship is not limited by time, place, or circumstance. It's an eternal anthem that resounds throughout generations, reaching even those who have not yet been born.
To those who have been hurt or harmed by the church, please know the harm and hurt came from humans, not God. Move on and away from those with limited thinking and embrace the thinking of a God who loves and welcomes all; and live in Him.
PRAYER: Loving God, in your presence we find fulfillment and joy in Your presence. Help us to live wholeheartedly for You, never ceasing to proclaim Your goodness and grace to the world. May our lives be a testimony to Your unfailing love and may Your name be praised now and forevermore. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: As you worship daily pray for those who feel invisible, ignored, and neglected. Pray harder for those who are feeling unwanted; then embrace and love them as your own.
I love you and I thank God for you!
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
