Wednesday, June 4, 2025  

Today's Scripture
Psalm 8

O Lord, our Sovereign,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!

You have set your glory above the heavens.
Out of the mouths of babes and infants
you have founded a bulwark because of your foes,
to silence the enemy and the avenger.

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars that you have established;
what are human beings that you are mindful of them,
mortals that you care for them?

Yet you have made them a little lower than God,
and crowned them with glory and honor.
You have given them dominion over the works of your hands;
you have put all things under their feet,
all sheep and oxen,
and also the beasts of the field,
the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea,
whatever passes along the paths of the seas.

O Lord, our Sovereign,
how majestic is your name in all the earth! (NRSV)

Reflection

Reading this psalm triggered a musical memory of an old Michael W. Smith song (sung by Sandi Patty). I love music — it’s a way I connect with things bigger than myself. Psalms, in my estimation, is a large worship script for whoever was leading the congregation. What I appreciate about the songs we sing for worship is, once I know them, I can lean into the feeling, the prayer, the idea embedded in the song. It helps me get out of the way and experience the Spirit in that moment.  

Sometimes when I am fighting with God, or shall we say “having an intense discussion,” I listen to music. It helps my heart meet the Spirit in a different, less thinking space. My spirit, connecting with God’s Spirit in a realm not governed by rational thought or even words. Music keeps me connected to the heart of God in ways I cannot explain.  

“Agnus Dei,” sung by Amy Grant on her Christmas to Remember album, is one of my favorite ways to experience the majesty of God in the tradition of the psalmists. Sunsets, the ocean, wind blowing through willow trees, the feel of a softball field under my feet, and snuggling under blankets are other places I vividly remember knowing God was present and that She is bigger than I can imagine.  

Where have you experienced the “bigness” of God?  

Prayer

Spirit, help me connect with you in ways that are a balm in this acidic world. Let me see your majesty so plainly I cannot miss it. And let it change me so I may love more deeply. Amen.  

Written by Nance Bartell, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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