God’s grace, freely poured out on us and all creation, births us into new creations. No longer are we slaves to fears and fads, nor do we form circles of exclusion. No longer do we fear the night or worry about the length of our life journey. We have family to walk with us, to carry us when we are unable. They also give us the great gift of trusting that we will carry them when the need comes. No longer do we wander aimlessly, seeking meaning in abstract thoughts, in possessions, or even in the approval of other people. We are heirs of Christ, which means that heaven is our destination. The psalmist reminds us that our present and future are clear; our past is redeemed as well. We walk as free people, joyful as we continue to learn and grow on the way of the Cross.
“O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” We proclaim the truth that we are not accidents. God brings the entire cosmos into being for a purpose. God’s wisdom, beyond our comprehension, fills creation with varieties of fish and fowl, mammals and people beyond count. There are as many ways to show our love of God as there are people and maybe as there are fish and fowl and other creatures. One way rises up above them all: “I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have being.” With unrestrained joy for the new creation that continues in all directions, we add our voices to those who came before us and those who come after us, calling out in universal chorus: Praise the Lord!