Fields United Methodist Church

Thoughts Along the Way

Pastor Tom Joyce

September 10, 2021

“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing.”

Psalm 100:1-2

There are thousands of Christian songs that are sung in houses of worship, concerts, and at home on a daily basis; we are called to “make a joyful noise to the Lord!” A joyful noise is made to God with every thanksgiving, every confession, every prayer, every witness, and every cup of water offered to one in need. Singing and/or listening to songs of faith is fun and enlightening yet the music that gives God the most glory is sung when we live out our faith in Jesus our Lord in all that we do. Your “joyful noise” could well be singing songs of faith or it could be sharing what Jesus has placed upon your soul to celebrate in your life today. Have you ever found yourself marveling at a sunset or sunrise? How about the star-studded sky? Or have you listened to the singing of birds, or the rustle of leaves as the wind blusters through the midst of trees? Celebrating the spectacular creation that surrounds you is making a “joyful noise.” Have you ever found yourself just thanking Jesus, for no particular reason than that you know Jesus is with you? Once again, a “joyful noise.” When your world is rocked by loss, a “joyful noise” is feeling the presence of Jesus with every step through the valley of uncertainty. Whether coming to the Lord’s house for worship, joining worship online, or even falling to your knees with the realization that the Creator of the Universe cares and loves you, even and especially you, come into his presence with your soul singing, with your heart beating the rhythm of faith, and your spirit engaged with the Holy Spirit of God; it will make a difference, a profound difference in your daily journey through this life. Take time to truly consider the gifts you have received from God through our Lord Jesus Christ and give God all the glory as you celebrate the “Lord with gladness and come into his presence with singing.” Come to think about it, you are always in the presence of the Lord, so it is truly good to now and always to “make a joyful noise to the Lord.”