praise the lord anyway
“My being proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit finds joy in God my Savior.” —Luke 1:46-47
Some years ago, people started saying “PTL” (Praise the Lord). An even more appropriate suggestion is “PTLA” (Praise the Lord Anyway). Often praise is an act of faith, not sight (2 Cor 5:7).
Because we have faith in the Lord, we praise Him when we don’t see His glory — and even when we see nothing but pain and problems. Hannah exulted in the Lord after her baby was born, seeing a happy ending to her life story (1 Sm 2:1). Mary, however, proclaimed the greatness of the Lord in hard times (Lk 1:46ff). Pregnant before living with her betrothed husband, the Blessed Virgin Mary could have lost St. Joseph, her marriage, her family, and even her life. She seemed to be in an impossible situation. When most people would be complaining, she proclaimed that God had done great things for her (Lk 1:49).
If you’re sad, depressed, sick, separated, divorced, or poor this Christmas, PTLA. God doesn’t have to prove Himself to us. He already did. We know He has the final word and can turn anything to the good (Rm 8:28). So there’s no need to delay. Right now, PTLA. He’s worthy to be praised (Rv 5:12).
Prayer: Jesus, may I praise You under the worst conditions (see Acts 16:25). May I praise my way into Christmas.
Promise: “I prayed for this child, and the Lord granted my request. Now I, in turn, give him to the Lord.” —1 Sm 1:27-28
Praise: “I prayed for this child, and the Lord granted my request. Now I, in turn, give him to the Lord.” —1 Sm 1:27-28
Reference: For a related teaching on Mary’s Visitation, listen to, download or order AV 73-3 or V 73 on our website.)
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