by Sharon Martin

Psalm 96 “O sing to the Lord a new song.” v. 1

We all have a story to share. We all have a song to sing. Stories of faith and mercy; songs of praise and thanksgiving for the blessings received through the grace of God. Psalm 96 encourages us all to sing these songs with full-throated confidence – to share our stories with courage and boldness. What a beautiful call for us to receive – though also, at least for me, intimidating.

I tend to get lost in the “songs” I know, endless dissonant loops playing in my head that cloud my vision and silence the true song within. The old drowns out the new, making me wonder: Is there a new song to sing? What is the song in my heart? Can I truly sing a *new* song?

On this most Holy Night, the answer to all of these questions comes in the birth of a tiny baby who is wrapped in swaddling cloths and laid in a manger. Mary gives birth to Jesus – our hope, our light, and our salvation. The Angels sing and rejoice with a new song of hope and peace. The shepherds cannot help but join in their song. In this holy time – we too are encouraged to add our unique voices to this Holy choir.

Be encouraged:

•  To be still and listen to the true song of your heart
• To listen to songs of others
• To reflect on the new song Jesus’ birth inspires you to sing
• To share your new song with full-throated thanks and praise

We all have a story to share. We all have a song to sing. May we all sing to the Lord a new song.

Prayer

God, this is the day you have made.

Come now Lord Jesus, so I may rejoice and be glad in it.

Come now Lord Jesus, so I may surrender to you my agenda and to-do list.

Come now Lord Jesus, so I may receive today your love from the ones you have blessed to give it to me.

Come now Lord Jesus, so I may share today your love with the ones you have blessed me to give it to.

Come now Lord Jesus, so I, all people, and all creation may be awake and ready for the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ, and the glorious end of days.

Amen