Today’s reading is a psalm of praise. It is unclear if the psalmist’s context is the Exodus or the exile. However, it is clear that the psalmist believes in the sovereignty of God in difficult situations. The psalmist is intent on giving God praise. In verse six, Israel is implored, “Let the high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands.” This is sometimes a less palatable vision of praise in our time. The second part of this imperative seems aggressive if not violent. However, its essence is an aspect of praise that we often ignore.

The psalmist outlines a two-part strategy to praise. The first part is our commonly understood meaning of praise: Praise is the vocal articulation of God’s goodness. We not only must take note of God’s action, but we must give it language. We are called to bear public witness to the ways in which God provides, protects, and sustains.

The second part of praise is one that I often forget. We are called to defend and protect God’s mission. This work does not require death and dismemberment. On the contrary, this battle requires that we be willing to work hard to protect those who fall prey to the overreach of empire. If we are to be faithful, our praise is to work for justice and equality. Our praise is to care for others. Our praise is to tear down systems of power that hold people captive. That is the highest praise we have.