“Shout to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things!”—Psalm 98:1, NIV 

Over the last couple of weeks, we’ve drifted into a new season and a new month. Sometimes, I fail to recognize that in late September, we officially move from summer to autumn on the calendar.  At times, in late September, and oftentimes into October, the 90-degree temperatures still resemble summer. It’s as if the temperatures and the calendar can’t come to agreement on which month and season it is! Such is the weather in northwest Arkansas! 

As the warmness of summer’s remains gives way to the coolness of autumn, I am reflecting on the marvelous things the Lord has done over the past several months in and through Christ Church. I’ve told countless people over the last few months, “I don’t know how this or that got accomplished, other than by the grace of the Lord and His faithful servants.” From worship to partnership Sunday, to Community Groups, to Christ Church Youth, to Fall Retreat, to Christ Kids, to food pantry items, to Lunch Buddies, and on and on, the Lord has done marvelous things! 

The Lord has indeed done marvelous things, and faithful servants have joined the Lord in those things. We should join the psalmist in shouts of praise and gratitude for the marvelous things the Lord has done. In addition, we should be grateful for each other’s commitment to work alongside one another as Christ’s body.  

While we look back with thanksgiving, we also look forward with hope. The same Lord who has done marvelous things in the past, can be depended upon to act faithfully in the future. As you look back over the last few months, where can you offer a shout of praise to God for the marvelous things He has done? As you look forward, how are you sensing the hope of the Lord rising up in you? 

Tags: praise, youth, fall, community groups, steve pulliam