January 27, 2025 // Optional Memorial of Saint Angela Merici, Virgin
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4, 5-6
Reflect on the Word//
There were two times a year growing up when I was allowed to stay up late: the nights when The Wizard of Oz or The Sound of Music were on television. (Back in those days, we watched movies when they were broadcast—no streaming services back then!) I can still hear the instrumental build-up as the sweeping panoramic shot zooms in on Fraulein Maria spinning on the mountaintop as she breaks out into song, singing, “The hills are alive with the sound of music.”
I cannot tell you how often I acted out this scene as a child. In some ways, the film The Sound of Music taught me how to “break into song” and “sing praise” (Psalm 98:4). So, when Psalm 98:1 tells us to, “Sing to the Lord a new song,” which part of today’s Psalm sings in your heart?
Is your new song a song of “victory” (Psalm 98:2)?
Is it a song of “joy” (Psalm 98:4)?
Does your song proclaim praise for God’s mercy and “kindness”(98:3a)?
As we pray with the Psalms, we might not be able to enter into a shout of praise at all. It might be a song of mourning, pain, and confusion. But can we find it in our hearts to praise Him in our pain?
We know that Christ came to transform our pain, to redeem our suffering. When we suffer we can remember the martyrs who now enjoy the glory of Heaven, who survived their own tribulation. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church puts it: “In communion with them, the Church on earth also sings these songs with faith in the midst of trial” (§ 2642).
There is a time for us to praise as one body as we do at Mass, your individual voice valued and carried by the whole Church. And then there is a time for us to spin on the mountaintop and sing a solo to the Lord. Just your voice shouting. No one else can sing your song, so sister, “break into song; sing praise.”
Relate to the Lord // Sing a song of praise and thanksgiving to God today!
Tricia Tembreull is a seasoned ministry professional dedicated to guiding young hearts toward spiritual growth, healing, and the love of Christ. With a background in youth and young adult ministry, Tricia has served in various roles, including as a youth minister, college campus ministry at USC Caruso Catholic Center, and Regional Director for Life Teen International. As a devotions writer for Blessed Is She, she shares scripture reflections that resonate deeply with women of faith. Recognized as a compelling Catholic speaker, Tricia challenges audiences to embrace their faith with authenticity. Additionally, as a spiritual director, she provides compassionate support to those seeking deeper connections with God. Currently serving as the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization for the Diocese of Orange, Tricia continues to inspire young adults to embrace their faith journey with zeal and purpose, embodying a commitment to spreading the gospel while fostering communities of love.
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