Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples. For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.
—Psalms 117:1-2

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Hallelujah (Praise the Lord)
By Jennifer Kane

From Age to Age : hallelujah
From east to west : hallelujah
From furthest north to deepest south : hallelujah
Let all the people of the earth
Join in voice the song our savior sang : Hallelujah
Great is your love toward us : hallelujah
Your faithfulness, Lord endures forever : hallelujah
So I join my voice into this eternal kingdom song
Praise the Lord, hallelujah!

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Scriptures: Psalms 117:1-2

Psalm 117 is only two verses long, but it bursts with the heart of the Gospel. It is a universal call for all nations to praise the LORD, a reminder that His salvation was never meant for just one people, but for the whole world.

Long before Jesus’ sacrifice opened the door for all humanity, God’s heart was already reaching outward. Psalm 117 invites not only Israel but all Gentiles—all tribes and nations—to praise Him. At the Passover meal, Jesus sang these words with His disciples, knowing that through His death and resurrection, He would make this call a reality. His love would extend to every corner of the earth.

We are called to praise because of two unshakable foundations:
His merciful kindness (hesed): His loyal love that prevails over sin, death, and hell.
His truth: His faithfulness and promises never fail, enduring forever.

Through Jesus, mercy and truth are perfectly joined. His grace overflows, and His Word stands unchanging. As Martin Luther noted, Psalm 117 reminds us of God’s prophecy, revelation, instruction, and admonition—all fulfilled in Christ.

Imagine Jesus, on the eve of His greatest suffering, lifting His voice with this psalm. He was thinking not just of Israel, but of you. Of every nation. He faced the cross with joy, knowing it would bring the nations into the song of praise.

Let your heart join that song today. Praise the LORD for His mercy toward you, for His truth that never changes. And as you do, remember: this praise is a missionary call. Share His mercy and truth so that more voices might join the eternal hallelujah.

“Praise the LORD!” (Hallelujah!)

Father God, We praise You for Your merciful kindness and Your enduring truth. Thank You for calling people from every nation, tribe, and tongue to know You and worship You. Let our lives be a living song of praise, reflecting Your love and faithfulness. Help us to proclaim Your goodness wherever we go, that others may join in the eternal hallelujah. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

April 27 2025