Click here to go to Psalm 30
This Psalm is labeled: A Psalm of David. A song for the dedication of the temple.
I love verses 11 & 12 especially this weekend as we said good bye (or rather "see you later") to a dear friend and God honoring man. Our friend, Ray, had been a part of the sheriff's department for over 40 years. He touched a lot of lives. He lived life with no regrets. Today in the service our Pastor used the life that Ray lived to challenge all in attendance, including close to 100 sheriff's deputies and explorers (kids 14-20 who think they want a future in the sheriff's department) to live life with no regrets. To live life with the peace, joy, and love that Ray lived. And there's only one way to do that, ask Jesus to be your Lord and Savior. He had an "altar" call, though he didn't have them come down front he asked them to raise their hands. No eyes closed either. Probably 20 people raised their hands and said, "Yes, I want this Jesus that Ray knew."
Even though the pain is still very real and very deep for not only the family but for many of us who knew him, there is rejoicing. Rejoicing that he's with his Lord, rejoicing that even in death he's making an impact on lives.
Ray's joy has come complete! Our Lord is glorious. Thank you for sharing this celebration song, Holly. I cannot stand still contained within a narrow space during worship. I go to the front and stand beside our pastor. Then... cameras! Oh, that was a little hard. Now I am comfortable. For I worship our Lord and when we become "live" I will not mind, for I already do not notice. I am glad that has happened! So conscious of Him, that all else fades.
ReplyDeletePsalm 30
1 I will exalt you, LORD, for you rescued me.
11,12 You have changed my sobbing into dancing. You have removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy so that my soul may praise you with music and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever.
Psalm 100
2 Serve the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing.
What an amazing testimony your friend Ray has, even now! So beautiful--thank you for sharing, Holly!
ReplyDeleteI love the verses Kathleen (Lane) highlighted here too. As an eternal optimist, these are the ones that seem a sort of anthem to me: that mourning may last for a night, but joy always, always comes in the morning. He turns our crying to dancing, our grief to joy. Praise be to the Lord!