This the very first line of one of the earliest hymns in the Bible and gives thanks to the Lord for his goodness and mercy. Long before we developed the habit of reading the Psalms, these words were undoubtedly sung musically and perhaps as a chant. 

The gift of sacred music and hymns means much to me in my own spiritual journey, especially singing in the First Parish adult choir and as I listen to the inspiring chorales, masses and requiems of Bach, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Verdi and other composers. 

I have sang in church choirs most of my adult life, and am now an octogenarian bass in the choir. I have found that sacred music and our hymns and anthems binds us all together and helps keep me connected not only to fellow choristers but also to God. 

This sacred music can be our most heartfelt expression of thankfulness to God for His eternal goodness and mercy.  

Prayer: Thank you, God, for the gift of song and for a voice to sing our gratitude. Amen.