The Lord calls His people to sing to Him a new song (Ps. 33:3; 149:1). The sense of “new” relates to new, fresh impulses of gratitude and praise in our hearts as we consider the greatness of God and His works. One implication is that even when we sing old songs, there should be a newness in the way our hearts are resonating with the truths we’re singing.
I think of this often this time of year, when we’re given to sing so many rich and familiar Christmas hymns. And I pray that for all of us, the glorious truth of what the Father accomplished when “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (Jn. 1:14) will be all the more fresh, amazing, and song-provoking in our lives. What great, living hope He has called us to in Christ (1 Pet. 1:3, 13; 3:15); and what cause we have for always singing new songs – even when facing grief and sorrow. And what cause we have to proclaim His life-giving excellencies to those still in darkness (1 Pet. 2:9-10)!
Speaking of rich and familiar Christmas hymns, I recently came across some fresh arrangements of many of these classics by a group called Folk Angel – you might check them out. Beyond wishing that these guys would smile (like they’re actually joyful…), I’ve been blessed and encouraged by their music! A few personal favorites: O Little Town of Bethlehem; Joy to the World; Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus ; O Holy Night; and a “new, new” song called God With Us.
Rejoicing and singing on with you,
Greg