First Sunday after Christmas Psalm 148

The Hallelujah Psalter

The majestic conclusion to the Psalter is composed of five psalms (sometimes called the “Hallelujah Psalter”) that all begin and end with the exclamatory word of praise, “Hallelujah” (“Praise the LORD”—Pss. 146-50).

Psalm 148, the center psalm of the five, is an example of a psalm of praise that fills the universe with the praise of God. In fact, the psalmist has incorporated this universal perspective in the structure of the psalm itself in two ways:

1. by using the imperative form “Praise the LORD” (hallelujah) ten times in the psalm, exclusive of the beginning and closing; and

2. by structuring the psalm in two strophes that reflect the initial creation of the “heaven” and the “earth” (Gen. 1:1).…

1. Universal Praise: Psalm 148 calls on all creation, from heavenly beings to earthly creatures, to praise God. How does this universal perspective on praise affect our understanding of God’s majesty and sovereignty? What might it mean for us today to join in a “universal chorus” of praise?

2. Praise as Power: We have described praise as God’s "weapon of choice" and as a source of strength for His people. How does viewing praise as a form of spiritual strength or "weapon" change our approach to worship? How might praise empower us in our daily struggles?