Finding Praise in the Silence

Tenth Sunday after Pentecost

Week of: August 9, 2020
Scripture: Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b

Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
(Psalm 105:1-3, NIV)

Devotion

Music and visual arts are sources of praise, rejoicing, and strength for both the creating musician or artist as well as the listener and viewer of the music and art. During these challenging times as corporate and congregational singing is quiet, our pews are empty, and worship is virtual, I find myself turning to the beauty around me.

Our sanctuaries provide peace in images such as the art of stained glass, a shining brass cross, or the simplicity of a lit candle. As musicians and artists, we are still creating as we record and produce online worship experiences. Within the process of creating we find God's wonders and proclaim God's name. As you look to the Lord for strength in the days ahead, continue to find ways to praise, sing, and give God the glory.

Prayer

Holy Creator, you have given us the ability to praise you through our music and art. We ask you to keep us focused in our craft so that the blessings of the beauty we create may be a source of strength for our communities. Amen.

Dr. Todd Pettit
VDirector of Music & Worship Arts / Organist
Lafayette Park United Methodist Church
St. Louis, MO

Photo: A stained glass window is seen at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kansas City, MO.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)