Psalm 149 contains an unusual combination of joy and justice. It begins with a lilting song of praise, but it ends with a swinging sword of vengeance. Amazingly enough the concepts aren't conflicting, but complementary. Because this particular psalm emphasizes the context of corporate worship, it's an appropriate subject on the day after the Lord's Day. Verse 1 … Continue reading Singing and swinging, Psalm 149
Surviving or Thriving?
We've all had times in our lives when we feel we're hanging on by our emotional fingernails. We do the necessary minimum to keep ourselves and our families alive. We meet deadlines and keep engagements, but we don't enjoy life. We're in survival mode. We feel overwhelmed and pray with Moses: Make us glad for … Continue reading Surviving or Thriving?
Redeeming YA fiction
Janie B. Cheaney and Emily A. Whitten write discerningly about Young Adult literature over at their Redeemed Reader website. Yesterday's intriguing post by Janie piques my interest in the "Use and Abuse of Youth Literature." The two recently interviewed Meghan Cox Gurdon who wrote in June for the Wall Street Journal a controversy generating review about the "Darkness … Continue reading Redeeming YA fiction
Creation’s Praise, Psalm 148
If you're familiar with the blue Psalter Hymnal, published by the Board of Publications of Christian Reformed Church in 1976, you may well know and love #304, "Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah," which is based on Psalm 148. The song's rousing refrain contains antiphonal singing between the men's and women's parts. You may be able to listen … Continue reading Creation’s Praise, Psalm 148
Reformed Mission Services hires Interim Director
The following article by Glenda Mathes appeared on page 20 of the August 24, 2011, issue of Christian Renewal. On July 1, 2011, Reformed Mission Services (RMS) hired Rob Brinks (Cornerstone URC; Hudsonville, MI) to a two-year position as its Interim Director. Rob currently works part-time for RMS while continuing regular full-time employment. RMS is a … Continue reading Reformed Mission Services hires Interim Director
Broken hearts and changing seasons, Psalm 147
Praise builds as we near the end of the Psalter, and Psalm 147 overflows with praise. It also begins with a section of great comfort to the brokenhearted then cycles through sections with seasonal imagery. Identical praise phrases bookend the psalm. Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for … Continue reading Broken hearts and changing seasons, Psalm 147
RYS Convention 2011: Faith under construction
The following article by Glenda Mathes appeared on pages 16-19 of the August 24, 2011, issue of Christian Renewal. How can you hold the attention of over 600 high school students for five days? It helps to prohibit personal electronics such as cell phones, computers, iPods, and video games. Many young people at a recent … Continue reading RYS Convention 2011: Faith under construction
No trust in princes, Psalm 146
After two great sermons yesterday from Philippians that stressed our need to delight in Christ and imitate his servant attitude, my spirit rejoices as Psalm 146 conveys delight and trust in the Lord as our only hope. The psalm begins, as so many do, with a rousing call of praise: Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, … Continue reading No trust in princes, Psalm 146
Faith becomes sight: Lievaart ordination at Doon
The following article by Glenda Mathes appeared on page 15 of the August 24, 2011, issue of Christian Renewal. After two and half years of waiting on the Lord, faith became sight for the Doon United Reformed Church congregation in Doon, IA, when they witnessed Rev. Simon Lievaart ordained on June 29, 2011. About 125-150 … Continue reading Faith becomes sight: Lievaart ordination at Doon
Generational Praise, Psalm 145
As a new church school year begins, the covenantal character of Psalm 145 particularly strikes me. Instruction of covenant youth occupies a huge portion of my thoughts lately. I serve as the secretary for our church's Youth Education Committee and we've been busy getting materials and instructors lined up for the church school year. I … Continue reading Generational Praise, Psalm 145
Glenda Faye Mathes 