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1 God rules: there's something to shout over! On the double, mainlands and islands - celebrate! 2 Bright clouds and storm clouds circle 'round him; Right and justice anchor his rule. 3 Fire blazes out before him, Flaming high up the craggy mountains. 4 His lightnings light up the world; Earth, wide-eyed, trembles in fear. 5 The mountains take one look at God And melt, melt like wax before earth's Lord. 6 The heavens announce that he'll set everything right, And everyone will see it happen - glorious! 7 All who serve handcrafted gods will be sorry - And they were so proud of their ragamuffin gods! On your knees, all you gods - worship him! 8 And Zion, you listen and take heart! Daughters of Zion, sing your hearts out: God has done it all, has set everything right. 9 You, God, are High God of the cosmos, Far, far higher than any of the gods. 10 God loves all who hate evil, And those who love him he keeps safe, Snatches them from the grip of the wicked. 11 Light-seeds are planted in the souls of God's people, Joy-seeds are planted in good heart-soil. 12 So, God's people, shout praise to God, Give thanks to our Holy God! (Psalm 97 The Message Bible)
Happy Thursday, dear Friend! Make it a wonderful day sharing Jesus' love to alll people. Our psalm today is from The Message Bible, a modern paraphrase of The Bible written by Dr. Eugene Peterson.
Psalm 97 in The Message translation is full of movement, color, and celebration. It opens with an unmistakable command: shout, celebrate, rejoice! Why? Because God rules. That truth alone is meant to stir joy in every corner of creation—from islands to mountains, from clouds to fire.
This isn't a quiet, polite acknowledgment of God’s authority; it’s a vibrant, full-body response. The earth dances, nature trembles, and light bursts forth because God is present. And yet, this joy isn't lighthearted because everything is perfect—it’s a deep celebration that justice and righteousness are the foundation of His throne.
Verse 11 is especially powerful: “Light-seeds are planted in the souls of God’s people, Joy-seeds are planted in good heart-soil.” What an image! God is gardening joy and light into our lives. But like any good garden, it takes time, patience, and the right conditions. Sometimes we walk through darkness, but the promise is that God is always planting something in us—something that will bloom in His time.
In a world that often trades in fear and cynicism, Psalm 97 calls us to a bold, beautiful response: Rejoice in God. Love what’s good. Celebrate what is right. This isn’t about ignoring pain or pretending everything is fine. It’s about knowing Who is truly in control, and choosing joy even when life is uncertain.
PRAYER: God of Light and Justice, thank You for ruling with love and righteousness. Plant Your joy deeper in my heart today. Teach me to rejoice—not because life is easy, but because You are good, faithful, and near. Let my soul reflect Your light. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! OUR CALL TO ACTION: Wherever you are today—on a quiet island or a busy mainland—take a moment to rejoice. Let the seeds of joy and light planted by God grow into praise.
I love you and I thank God for you!
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
