The Festal What?

Psalm 89

On the count of three let’s all join together in the “festal shout” mentioned in Psalm 89:15, shall we? What, you don’t know what the festal shout is? Now that I think about it, neither do I. So what is the festal shout and why are the people who know it so happy?

Festal is a word that has to do with festivals or festivities, one that connotes joy and celebration. It probably refers to a part of the ancient liturgy use in the temple in Jerusalem. I doubt that it was some secret password, though. It is likely that anyone who worshiped regularly in the temple would have known what was meant by that. And that makes sense. The more you participate in the practices of a community the more you come to know what is going on and the more comfortable you become in taking part. But there is something even more important going on here, something that applies to all of us who seek to worship God.

Psalm 89:15 does not refer to a “liturgical moan”––it is a festal shout, and it grows out of a heartfelt desire to stand in the presence of God. Nor is it the “congregational giggle”––it is a festal shout and it is a responsible way, not only of worshiping, but also of living as part of a wider community. Nor is it the “Sunday sob”––it is a festal shout, and for Christians it comes as a response to the joyous news of the resurrection. Nor is it simply paying lip service to God­­––it is a glad offering of our very selves to the will of God.

The psalmist knew that the festal shout of Israel indicated a relationship between the worshiper and God. We, too, may demonstrate that relationship when we allow ourselves to guided in our worship, yes, but also in our living by the God of Israel whom we come to know in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord, fill us with joy that we may serve you gladly. In Jesus’ name. Amen.