EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH By Sally I. Kennedy

Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. Psalm 150:6

The first Sunday of December we had driven up to a small town in the northern part of the state. As we pulled in, the little church came into view. Some paint was needed, but its tall steeple still pointed heavenward. Musty garlands and wreaths, that had been packed away for a year, were now lovingly hanging over doorways, on window sills, and around the altar.

The worship service opened and the choir sang a medley of traditional Christmas hymns. Simple. No choir robes. No live music; they sang to a track. They had a big sound, for a small group!

Up in the choir loft were persons of all ages. A young woman in a trendy outfit, chewing gum and singing her heart out at the same time, caught my eye. Then a middle aged, graying gentleman, wearing a bright red tie, smiling while he sang.

I was worshipping, as they "made a joyful noise to the Lord". Then it was that I noticed the woman at the end of front row. Snowy hair, shorter than the rest, she stood tall with purpose. Wow. How cool to watch this dear soul, probably well into her late eighties, singing and praising the Lord.

The verse from the Bible came to mind, "Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord." It was good to be reminded. There's a saying, "There's no retirement for a Christian." This is true. And as long as we live, as long as we have breath, it is good to praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord!