Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth! Sing out the honor of His name. - Psalm 66:1-2

Holidays hold different meanings for different people - but one thing is for sure: We all like to have a reason to celebrate.

As I stood on a lakeshore one summer holiday and saw the hundreds and hundreds of people boating, swimming, picnicking, or simply walking together, I thought of the value of celebrating important events together with friends and loved ones.

Did you ever try to celebrate something alone? A fireworks display isn't much fun if there's no one to "ooooh and aaaah" with. Picnics need people. Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations - they all go better with lots of friends and relatives around.

As Christians, we have much to celebrate - and not alone or just a few times a year! We're to meet regularly with others who follow Christ, to encourage one another in love and good works (Hebrews 10:24-25), and to celebrate the goodness of the Lord. The psalmist encouraged all people to recall "the works of God" and lift their voices together in praise to Him (Psalm 66:5-8).

Let's celebrate God's love and goodness with those who share our excitement. God's outpouring of His grace, mercy, and daily provision are just a few of the many reasons to rejoice!

-JDB

Let us celebrate together,
Lift our voice in one accord,
Singing of God's grace and mercy
And the goodness of the Lord.

-Sper

If you know Christ, you always have a reason to celebrate.