October 9th Reflection - Thanks - by Bill Lynch

Psalm 111
Praise for God’s Wonderful Works

Praise the Lord!
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart,
   in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Great are the works of the Lord,
   studied by all who delight in them.
Full of honour and majesty is his work,
   and his righteousness endures for ever.
He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds;
   the Lord is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him;
   he is ever mindful of his covenant.
He has shown his people the power of his works,
   in giving them the heritage of the nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
   all his precepts are trustworthy.
They are established for ever and ever,
   to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people;
   he has commanded his covenant for ever.
   Holy and awesome is his name.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
   all those who practise it have a good understanding.
   His praise endures for ever.

Reflection
Give thanks to God, always!
Always give thanks to the Lord!
Thank God in the midst of the congregation.
Thank God in the day to day of life.

God has created all that exists.
The earth, the sun, the stars and planets,
All are God's handiwork.
From the smallest particle of sand to the largest star.

God delights in the people.
God rejoices in the sounds of creation.
All of God's works praise the Creator.
Sing the praise of God continuously.

We remember God's great works.
Recall how the Father sent the Son.
Jesus, to bring life from death.
Jesus to wrap us in his love.

Feel the waters of baptism.
The cleansing love of the Father.
The renewing passion of the Savior.
The gifts of the Spirit flow freely.

We rejoice at the Table of Life.
We take the bread and the wine.
We receive the body and the blood.
Our Lord grants us new life.

Give thanks to God always!
God's grace is revealed moment by moment.
God's love and compassion spread throughout creation.
Praise Father, Son and Spirit!

Prayer
Lord, I give you all glory, honor, thanks and praise... today... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen