Fit for a King

“Hallelujah” is the only word I know that is the same in every language. Last week I heard a speaker say it means “the highest praise”. I went on the hunt in study because I thought it translated as “Praise the Lord”. What I discovered is that it does mean “Praise Yahweh”. I can see why it can be called the highest praise for several reasons.

1) In Revelation 19, there is a sound of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters thundering “Hallelujah”. I can only imagine the sound. Wow. It’s a victory celebration. There’s great comfort in reading the last chapter of The Book for assurance that everything’s going to turn out more than alright.

2) Unity is a glorious thing. I recall attending an international Aglow convention where women from more than 100 nations were in attendance. The language barrier often kept us from sharing more than a “Hallelujah” and a smile. But it was enough. We were able to connect. Hallelujah in that context spoke unity and love.

3) The Hallelujah Chorus in Handel’s Messiah is a stunning musical masterpiece. In many parts of the world, it is the accepted practice for the audience to stand for this section of the performance. Interesting Fact: Tradition has it that King George II rose to his feet at this point. As the first notes of the triumphant Hallelujah Chorus rang out, the king rose. Royal protocol has always demanded that whenever the monarch stands, so does everyone in the monarch's presence. As was and is the custom, one stands in the presence of royalty as a sign of respect. The Hallelujah chorus clearly places Christ as the King of Kings.

I leave you to a happier Monday now. If you say it out loud, it becomes a A NEW Hallelujah! Micahel W. Smith has it going on too… over HERE.