JULY 4

These Psalms are Psalms of great praise. They are also
sometimes called the Hallel Psalms–meaning praise.

Like Psalm 113, they were probably sung by families on the
night of the Passover. Psalms 113 and 114 were probably sung at the
beginning of the meal, and Psalms 115–118 at the close of the meal.
They, also, must have been hymns that Jesus and the disciples sang
at the Last Supper.

Psalm 114 is a song of exodus, recalling the wonders and
miracles of Israel’s deliverance out of Egypt.

Psalm 117 is a summons to all the people to praise the Lord,
It is also the middle chapter of the Bible, and the shortest, but
its two verses contain a tremendous message. They emphasize praise
to the Lord by all people, for His mercy and for His truth, which
shall endure forever.

Psalm 118 was Jesus’ farewell hymn to His disciples as He
left the Passover on His way to Gethsemane and Calvary. Note
especially verse 24: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we
will rejoice and be glad in it.”

This is certainly a day for rejoicing. And each of us should
thank our heavenly Father for the independence He has given our
nation. Our nation was founded on godly principles, by a group of
dedicated men who were willing to fight for freedom. God has honored
and blessed our country above all countries on the face of the
earth. Each of us should be thankful for the God-given privilege of
being Americans.