A new song
by Ruth Olsen
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Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvellous things (Psalm 98:1a).
This psalm is a call to celebrate with joy the righteous reign of the Lord, extending out from the worshipping congregation to all the people of the earth and the whole of creation. The footnote in my NIV Study Bible says it recalls God’s revelation of his righteousness in the past (verse 2), and it speaks confidently of his coming rule ‘in righteousness’ (verse 9), framing the shout for joy that is called forth in the middle verses.
No matter what is going on in the world around us, no matter whether some people ridicule Christianity and the message of Jesus, the followers of Jesus are aware of a bigger picture. We can take God at his word. His word is reliable; when he speaks, something happens (Genesis 1), and when we take him at his word, something also happens! We are no longer empty or easily blown about, for he is our anchor, our light in the growing darkness.
Because Jesus is the light of the world, his followers will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life showing us the way (John 8:12;14:6). The media and social media frequently feed out things that promote darkness and self-centredness. Are we walking in his light, receiving from him, reflecting his light, life, love and care into our situations?
Yes, the Lord has done marvellous things, and he continues to do marvellous things! Many new songs can continually be written, inspired by the Holy Spirit, revealing fresh insights into what the Lord is like, his character, faithfulness, love, mercy and forgiveness, available to all through Jesus. Maybe if we let ourselves get ‘lost’ in worshipping him in Spirit and truth, joining with creation in singing to him, we will be awakened in trusting and knowing him more.
Have you tried singing your own ‘new song’ to him in spontaneous praise and thanksgiving?
Lord God, you alone are worthy of all honour, worship and praise! There is none like you, Lord! Amen.
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