Thanksgiving, praise, and the peace that passes understanding

"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise." -- Psalm 100:4

There is something about an earnest gratitude that is open to the world and open to God. There is something about honest praise -- even enthusiasm -- that lifts and expands the spirit. And so I take Psalm 100 to have a meaning apart from a physical place of worship: that thanksgiving opens the door to God in our spirits, that praise brings us to a sanctuary inside his courtyard. There is the peace that passes understanding, as St Paul says "with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God, and the peace of God that passes all understanding will keep (guard) your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus". (Philippians 4:6-7)

So Paul connects thanksgiving to the peace that passes understanding. He also connects that peace to turning our minds to things worthy of praise, as his very next thought continues: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good report; if there is anything of virtue/excellence, and if there is any worthy of praise, think on these things." (Philippians 4:8)

My favorites among the psalms and hymns are often ones of thanksgiving and praise. Worshiping with them brings my heart and mind into that sense of sanctuary, or the safety of the sheep-pen. There his presence is more felt, and his blessings are more clear to the senses. 

May this strengthen my desire to practice thanksgiving and praise.