If dynamite comes in small packages, this Psalm packs quite the wallop. It's the shortest chapter in the Bible but the vision it provides is without measure. The heartbeat of the entire week is wrapped up in a few short verses and given back to us in the form of worship ... worship by all nations and all peoples.

I once had an editor tell me when writing my book "if you can remove words and it still makes sense, remove the words." Less is more. Precision is powerful. If that be true, this Psalm is the perfect linguistic treasure. After all we've studied so far; the fall in Eden, various spiritual and human rebellions, disinheritance, promise, mission, and now fulfillment, the final word isn't anxiety; it is praise. Clarity, not confusion. Invitation, not distance.

In earlier readings this week we see various approaches to the nations. Sometimes a reminder that God is in control over them. Sometimes we are asked to desire His glory be shown among them. Today, Psalm 117 models for us the final desired outcome: all the nations and peoples of the world in exuberant praise ... worshipping together.

Why should the nations lift praise to Him? Because His faithful love towards us is great; indescribable. He doesn't summon the nations to praise because of what THEY have to offer, but because He is steadfast in grace and abundant in mercy. His promise of covenant faithfulness is greater than any rebellion. He has outlasted our wandering and His mission remains.

I hope this isn't a surprise ending for you. The same God who passed judgement at Babel is the same God who calls the nations to Himself for praise and rescue. The same God who sent the Son is gathering people from every tribe and every tongue to join the triumphant songs of David in worship to the Eternal King.

In scripture we learn how angelic beings never cease to worship day and night, crying "Holy, Holy, Holy". Psalm 117 invites us all to join that chorus.

Pause for a minute and think about God's global purpose; about His desire to redeem ALL the nations. Then take a moment and reflect on the church around us today. How do you respond to His mission? With fear, reluctance, or with worship?

What about the church at large? How are we embodying the Mission of God to bring hope and Good News to the peoples of the world? How can you shape your prayer, generosity, and daily witness to come alongside Him in His mission, in this song of praise among the nations?

Father, we praise you because you are good. Your faithful love leaves us speechless, but ever grateful. Thank you for not abandoning us or your mission to the nations. Thank you for not abandoning me. Give me wisdom and strength to live my life in such a way as to invoke praise to you from those that cross my path, in my small portion of the nations. Amen.