The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all. (Psalm 103:19)

The book of Ezekiel begins with a vision experienced by the prophet in which he saw the Throne of God. Surrounding the Throne were four living creatures; one with the face of a man, one with the face of a lion, another with an eagle and the fourth had the face of a bull. Centuries later, the apostle John observed the same vision while on the isle of Patmos. It is largely mysterious as to why God surrounds Himself so, but Jewish commentators offer a view for consideration. They suggest these four creatures are by the Throne of God to represent the four primary “rulers” here on earth.

The bull is there because it proudly rules over the domestic animal kingdom; the lion is present because it rules over the wild beasts. Likewise, the eagle is there because it rules over the creatures that fly, and finally, man is represented because he was given dominion to rule over all creatures. Yet, these four living creatures willingly give glory, honor and thanks to Him who sits on His heavenly throne saying, ““Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!”(Revelation 4:8). Therefore, whether it is tame or wild, earthbound or flying, the Creator is Master of all that exists.

That being so, David saw fit to conclude this psalm by calling upon all of Creation to bless, honor and worship its King. Whether it be the angels in heaven, the starry hosts that fill the galaxies or the mortal creatures that inhabit this planet, all things that are the works of His hands are to “Bless the Lord!” On that note, it seems fitting to close with this reminder: even if we who are His most beloved creation refuse to acknowledge His majesty, the remainder of His creation will honor Him. When Messiah was told to silence His disciples for shouting, “Hosanna!” He said, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out” (Luke 19:40). The entirety of His Creation hails His greatness; we who are created in His image should be the loudest voice among them all. So, today and every day let us proclaim, “Bless the Lord O my soul!”

Blessings and Shalom,  

Bill