singing

When We Always Praise

/ pastorpete51 / Leave a comment

I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1 ESV

I love taking early morning walks as an extension of my quiet time with God. I especially enjoy watching and taking photos of all the different birds as they begin their days. Some stand by the pond fishing, while others peck at the ground searching for their breakfast. Though Florida is famous for its Flamingos, Cranes and Pelicans, our state bird is actually the Mocking bird. They are plentiful, boisterous and most of all, they love to sing.

Seeing one singing loudly in my neighbor’s tree yesterday, reminded me that whether my little bird friend understands it or not, his songs give glory to God. No matter what the weather he never quits! As I listened and I remembered that in my own, life others will be a whole lot more likely to listen to what I have to say, if I persistently give God praise. Here is my little poem today as a testament to my tiny feathered friend and to God who at all times is worthy of our praise! May you have a blessed and praise filled day!

When We Always Praise

He sits upon the highest branch

And gives His tune to God

Through wind and rain in heat and snow

He thinks it very odd

That anyone would only sing

On quiet sunny days

And miss all that God has in store

When we always give Him praise

When We Always Praise by Peter Caligiuri 10-9-20

Then Sings My Soul

/ pastorpete51 / 6 Comments

I will be your God throughout your lifetime— until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. Isaiah 46:4 NLT

It is hard to believe that it has now been almost six months since were able to sing the hymns together at the nursing home. The wing where we held our services has been converted to a Covid-19 isolation ward for those coming back from hospitals throughout our area who are in recovery. Amazingly as of two weeks ago not a single one of the original residents has died. The reopening of nursing homes here in Florida is supposedly on the horizon and though some of my friends may no longer remember me I will wager dollars to donuts that they still remember the words; “Then sings my soul; My Savior God to Thee.” It is one of God’s special miracles that as we sing those old familiar choruses; most have little trouble remembering the hymns as we lift up our voices in praise.

As the last notes fade away remember that what really matters is not how smart we are, how much money we have in the bank; but in how much we matter to God. He has given us His promise to carry us not only during our years of beauty and youth but on through white hair and failing memory. His love is His eternal and unchanging commitment. Even if everyone else forgets us, Jesus remembers. He has promised to carry us for a lifetime no matter where we live and for that we can still sing to Him today! I pray this family version of How Great Thou Art with the Gettys will lift your day and renew your hopes for the time when as God’s family we can share it together again!