Praying the Psalms with Augustine and Friends

Chapter 5: Psalms 81–101

183

Psalm 100 with Augustine – Rejoicing in the Creator Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth (v. 1). Those working in the fields are most likely to shout for joy. Reapers or vinegrowers, or those who gather the fruits of the earth sing in exultation, delighted with abundant produce and rejoicing in the very richness and exuberance of the soil. Among the songs they utter in words, they add joyful cries without words. How do we celebrate? When we offer as praise that which is beyond words. For we observe the whole creation, the earth and the sea, and all things that are within them. Who created all these things? Who made them? Who made you? I have observed the whole creation, as far as I could. I have observed the physical creation in heaven and on earth, and the spiritual in myself. And can I even comprehend myself? How then can I comprehend what is above myself? Yet the sight of God is promised to the human heart, and we are instructed to purify our hearts. Look at the things that are made. Admire them. Seek their creator. If you are unlike him, you will turn away; if you are like him, you will rejoice. And when, being like him, you have begun to approach him, and to feel God, the more you will love since God is love, you will begin to perceive what you were trying to say, and could not say. Will you then be silent in the praises of God, and will you not offer up thanksgivings to him who made himself known to you? You praised him when you were seeking, will you be silent when you have found him? By no means; you will not be ungrateful. Honor, reverence, and great praise are due to him.