There is an insult that is often used “dumber than a box of rocks.” None of us would consider ourselves to be that devoid of life or of thought. After all, in God’s created order we are the higher beings. Able to think and create, to use tools, and to learn new things. That is true for every human, depending on gifting and education we all have intelligence in a variety of ways. Of course, we are not dumber than a box of rocks. But are we spiritually as void of life as a rock?
Jesus said if the people were to be silenced there is spiritual life in creation and God would have the stones sing the praises of Jesus. I do not believe this to be symbolic or metaphor. If Jesus willed as God the rocks would be given the voice to sing.
It is Christmas a time when there is more singing than at any other time of the year. Hymns and carols of Christmas are some of our favorite memories. Isaac Watts wrote the song Joy to the World in the mid-18th century. Watts was inspired to write, “And Heaven and nature sing” as words of this song from Psalm 98 because all of creature sings the glory of God and Christ Jesus our Lord.
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises! Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody! With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord! Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who dwell in it! Let the rivers clap their hands; let the hills sing for joy together” (Psalm 98:4–8, ESV)
A song today may be what you need to revive your heart. Make a joyful noise and be smarter than a box of rocks because Jesus is worthy of our praise.
rockbridgebc.org 