Psalm 100 has been called the Thanksgiving Psalm or the Thanksgiving Song. There are important words found in this Psalm that have important connections.
In the first two verses we are immediately made aware of the importance of joy and gladness in a thankful life. Because of God's steadfastness and faithfulness our approach to Him should be one that brings out our happiness in Him. We are encouraged to sing our way into His presence. And, guess what? It is not just for a select few, but for the whole earth.
In v. 3 we are told exactly what singing our way into His presence will lead us to. It leads us to the perception, recognition, and assurance that the Lord is Sovereign God. Not only did He make us, but because He made us and we are completely His through redemption, we are kept by Him even as a shepherd cares for and protects His sheep. Acknowledging that He is Lord and Shepherd circles us back around to praise and thanksgiving.
Then in v. 4 we are given the password which truly takes us through the gates into full worship. That password is "thank you"! It is only then that we can really make ourselves at home in worship and praise. Think of it - completely at home with Him in praise with a word of thanksgiving.
In v. 5 we are reminded that "thanksgiving worship" is a family affair. It is for all generations to remember that He is good and that His unfailing love and faithfulness are forever and for all generations. Thanksgiving takes us to a whole different level of worship and . . . Thanksgiving takes us to another level of "thanks-living" that is to be passed on to each generation. This is the true tradition that we must pass along to the next generation . . . our own monuments of thanksgiving and praise. mjm
