September 26, 2022

Hello Advent Family,

Most of you know that I am a big Miami Dolphins fan.  Some of my earliest childhood memories revolve around going to games or watching them on TV with my Dad and my Pop Pop.  Yesterday I talked about the Dolphins a bit in my sermon and when they ended up beating the Bills yesterday the celebratory texts started coming in from other fans.  I began contemplating, amidst my celebration, the things we truly celebrate in life.  One thing that we learn from the Psalms is how frequently David celebrates God.  Who He is, what He has done, just His general awesomeness.  Let’s look together today at Psalm 24.

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,
    the world, and all who live in it;

for he founded it on the seas
    and established it on the waters.

Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord?
    Who may stand in his holy place?

The one who has clean hands and a pure heart,
    who does not trust in an idol
    or swear by a false god.

They will receive blessing from the Lord
    and vindication from God their Savior.

Such is the generation of those who seek him,
    who seek your face, God of Jacob.

Lift up your heads, you gates;
    be lifted up, you ancient doors,
    that the King of glory may come in.

Who is this King of glory?
    The Lord strong and mighty,
    the Lord mighty in battle.

Lift up your heads, you gates;
    lift them up, you ancient doors,
    that the King of glory may come in.

Who is he, this King of glory?
    The Lord Almighty—
    he is the King of glory.

I imagine David singing songs like this as he walks through his royal palace.  I know yesterday I was singing, “Miami has the Dolphins, the greatest football team.  They take the ball from goal to goal like no one has ever seen.  They’re in the air they’re on the ground, they’re always in control and when you say Miami, you’re talking Super Bowl.”  While it’s fun to celebrate your team doing well (let’s be honest it’s been awhile) how much more does our God deserve to be celebrated.  Today and every day reflect on the great things God has done and just how great He truly is and take some time to celebrate Him!
 
In His Grip,
Pastor Dave

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