Day 13 - Thanksgiving

Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from heaven, you that live in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels, all his heavenly armies. Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, shining stars. Praise him, highest heavens, and the waters above the sky. Let them all praise the name of the LORD! He commanded, and they were created; by his command they were fixed in their places forever, and they cannot disobey. Praise the LORD from the earth, sea monsters and all ocean depths; lightning and hail, snow and clouds, strong winds that obey his command. Praise him, hills and mountains, fruit trees and forests; all animals, tame and wild, reptiles and birds. Praise him, kings and all peoples, princes and all other rulers; young women and young men, old people and children too. Let them all praise the name of the LORD! His name is greater than all others; his glory is above earth and heaven. He made his nation strong, so that all his people praise him-- the people of Israel, so dear to him. Praise the LORD!

Pray: "It is wonderful to be grateful and to sing your praises, LORD Most High! It is wonderful each morning to tell about your love and at night to announce how faithful you are" (Psalm 92:1-2, CEV).

Reflect: Who else in this psalm is a creature with will that can respond to the encouragement to "praise the LORD"? In these verses, is the repeated urging to praise God a request for participation or a recognition of participation? Is the psalmist saying, "Do this," or, "Keep on doing what you do"? What does it mean to you to willingly join with the rest of creation in responding to your Creator?

Respond: Retrieve a copy of the hymn, "All Creatures of Our God and King." Read the lyrics side by side with Psalm 148 and allow the sentiments of St. Francis to sink into your soul. Take time to let your response to God flow from within.