1 I will bless the Lord at all times;
his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
let the humble hear and be glad.
3 O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together.
4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me,
and delivered me from all my fears.
5 Look to him, and be radiant;
so your faces shall never be ashamed.
6 This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord,
and was saved from every trouble.
7 The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.
8 O taste and see that the Lord is good;
happy are those who take refuge in him
– Psalm 34:1-8 (NRSV)

The words of the Psalmist remind us to give thanks to God: for specific instances that we can name, for how God has been present to us in other people, for God’s love for us and for our relationship with God. At times, an awareness of God’s presence and blessing, perhaps because of, but perhaps in spite of, our circumstances, may cause us to pause and, knowing God is listening, to say a simple “thanks”.

Revd Claudia Coustas