This Psalm is filled with musical references and natural imagery, both in praise of the LORD. The Psalmist directs the spirit of God’s creation to join its instruments with human creation so that joyful noises blend trumpet, lyre, sea, flood and hills. The purpose of this scripture is powerful praise in melody, all of creation in harmonious worship. At the time of year when this scripture is read, weeks after the resurrection of Christ, Spring dominates nature and the time of celebration is filled with renewed life, vivid color and restorative hope.

This photograph, taken in Golden Gate Park, represents the perfect blend of creation, capturing an element of nature which is musical in form. This particular branch has grown in the shape of a lyre and its pink hues set against an intensely blue sky convey the essence of Spring and the Psalm. In this work, it is as if God has created God’s own visible and natural depiction of Psalm 98.

Though the photograph was taken in February, months earlier than the time when this scripture is placed in the celebration of Easter, it is never too early to commemorate the foundation of the Christian faith, that of the resurrected Christ. With this photograph and this Psalm, it has been placed before our eyes. We should make a joyful noise not only in this season, but throughout the year as the presence of God surrounds our every day. ~ Kitty Taylor