“From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will perform before those who fear him.” – Psalm 22:25

Scripture reading: Hebrews 12:1-3

Verse 25 returns us to the gathering of God’s people. It speaks about the “great congregation”. Except now the call to thanksgiving has ended. Following the configuration of Old Testament worship, he has brought the thank offerings of Leviticus 7:16. The sprinkling with blood and the laying of fat pieces upon the altar has been done. It’s the left-over meat of the sacrifice that now provides a joyful meal.

And, yet, there is still this looking to the Lord. In fact, we see here the whole congregation joining together in this. Those to whom He has called in verse 23 are singing God’s praise along with Him.

Dear friends, this is no joy that you can celebrate on your own. Indeed, which joy is there that you can honestly enjoy alone? Moreover, this is especially good news! For what else can they be celebrating than God’s keeping and guiding of His own, by His own hand. This is the care that would bring about the ultimate redemption of His people in His only begotten Son.

And that’s what they’re looking forward to. Even more than remembering God’s great deliverances there is the promise of the Messiah’s coming. And then all would be in all.

Suggestions for prayer

Praise God for the “great congregation” – the Church of all ages and all places. Plead with Him to bring in all the number of the elect. Moreover, pray that Jesus will come back very soon!

Rev. Sjirk Bajema currently serves the RCNZ Oamaru, in Oamaru, New Zealand. Over the past thirty-eight years Rev. Bajema has been privileged to minister with four congregations in Australia and New Zealand. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.