We had front row seats for one of the best firework displays in the country. It was the evening of July 4, 2002. We were sitting on the boardwalk by Boston’s Charles River. A few yards further on, the Boston Pops would soon provide patriotic musical accompaniment to the colorful explosions, known to all for pairing the riotous 1812 Overture with the visually stunning fireworks finale.
But something else made that night truly special. It was the first celebration of USA’s Independence Day after the horrific events of 9/11. As a nation, we needed to send a message to the world, a message that clearly communicated our determination to continue living our lives. And what better way to do that than to celebrate the anniversary of our Declaration of Independence out in the open, with bright fireworks and loud music?
Yes, soldiers with machine guns stood on the decks of gunships plying up and down the Charles River that night; more than a little unnerving to see as they cruised by just a few feet away. But also strangely comforting as the celebration rose in intensity.
As a nation, we needed to be, unmistakably, seen and heard. By everyone. So, all across the country that night, we were bright, colorful, sparkly, and, oh so loud. I can't imagine that anyone, anywhere, did not receive that declaration.
All of this came to mind when I read this week’s Psalm 66 passage. How do we make that joyful noise? God made us light-bearers. Shine! God deserves our songs of praise where others can hear! Sing!
As Katy Perry sings in Firework:
You just gotta ignite,
the light,
and let it shine.
Just own the night
like the 4th of July!
'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y
We need to be, unmistakably, the people of God. We need to be obvious. People need to be able to identify us, without having to turn over a bushel basket to check the strength and quality of our light.
‘Cause baby you’re a firework.
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PHOTO - CHARLES RIVER FIREWORKS:
*Katy Perry’s Firework (with lyrics):
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DaySpring’s Lectionary Breakfast does not meet this week. We’re taking a summer break. We return on July 29, 2022.
Blessings,
Steve
SCRIPTURES FOR SUNDAY AND THE COMING WEEK
Read them here:
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Isaiah 66:10-14
Galatians 6:(1-6), 7-16
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
Proper 9 (14) (July 3, 2022)
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