APRIL 1
Psalm 65:8, “You make the going out of the morning and the evening to shout for joy.”
In this psalm of thanksgiving, David exalts God for His mighty deeds and abundant provision. It is possible that this psalm was sung by the community during the Feast of Tabernacles, a celebration marking the end of harvest. David emphasizes how everything he observes in creation points back to God’s gracious hand. It is God who nurtures and enriches the land, fills the streams to ensure an abundant harvest, and overflows the carts with grain. He clothes the fields with beauty and covers the meadows with flocks. As a result, the entire earth rejoices: the meadows and valleys “shout and sing together for joy” (Psalm 65:13).
In this context, David proclaims that God’s presence makes “the going out of the morning and evening shout for joy” (Psalm 65:8), highlighting the joy and praise that all of creation offers to its Creator.
The hymn “Morning Has Broken” is a modern reflection of this same theme of creation and thanksgiving. Written in 1931 by Eleanor Farjeon, an English author known for her work in both children’s literature and hymns, this song celebrates the beauty and new beginnings found in each day. The hymn was initially cherished in the UK, but it gained worldwide recognition when Cat Stevens recorded it in 1971. Through its beautiful lyrics and melody, “Morning Has Broken” echoes the spirit of Psalm 65, reminding us of the beauty of God’s creation and the joy that fills the earth.
Creation shouts for joy to its creator. Every morning and evening it rejoices in God’s bountiful provision. Those who have ears to hear, join in. The blackbird’s song marks the start of a new God-given day. Fruit born in our lives by His gracious hand gives reason to sing a song of praise. Morning and evening shout for joy. We do well to join them!
“Praise with elation,
praise every morning,
God’s recreation
of the new day!”
— “Morning Has Broken,” Eleanor Farjeon (1931)
Application Questions: Both morning and evening represent unique opportunities to praise and thank God. Does joy mark these bookends to your day? Lend thought to God’s gracious provision in your own life. And rejoice with creation.
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