Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out: “To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.” – Revelation 5:12
Imagine the loudest sound you can dream up: a volcano erupting, a rocket launch, standing next to the speakers at a rock concert! Now multiply that and try to wrap your mind around the sound that would be made during our second reading today, Revelation 5:11-14. Everything in the universe cried out to God! Even things that have died long ago and are now “under the earth.” St. John the Evangelist saw this vision and predicted that everything that ever exists in one moment will “cry out to God with joy” (see Psalm 66:1). They will not be able to contain themselves but will cry out together in one voice. Pope St. John Paul II referred to this moment as one “of pure contemplation, joyful praise, song of love to Christ in his Paschal Mystery.”
Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth; sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise! Psalm 66:1
What does this mean for you and me today? These are visions that St. John had thousands of years ago and is a prophecy of the end of days. For one, it is a Biblical example of worship. When we worship the Lord, especially in song, we too cry out to God. It also shows the power of communal worship. Think of how amazing it sounds in the church when the entire assembly chants the Our Father together with one voice. Or when we all join in our favorite Easter hymns and sing out in praise of God together.
Lord Jesus, You are worthy of all of my praise. You are worthy to receive any honor, glory, or blessing that I might think is owed to me. Help me to give all glory to You.
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