Sing OUT

 Psalm 98  New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

O sing to the Lord a new song,
    for he has done marvelous things.
His right hand and his holy arm
    have gotten him victory.
The Lord has made known his victory;
    he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations.
He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness
    to the house of Israel.
All the ends of the earth have seen
    the victory of our God.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
    break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre,
    with the lyre and the sound of melody.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn
    make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.

Let the sea roar and all that fills it,
    the world and those who live in it.
Let the floods clap their hands;
    let the hills sing together for joy
at the presence of the Lord, for he is coming
    to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with righteousness
    and the peoples with equity.

Reflection

     "Make a joyful noise!" Many of us have heard this as a theological encouragement to sing out in praise and rejoicing to God. This good news broadens to include all those who may not sing with perfect pitch. Some of you may have not heard this encouragement, but were told to sing more quietly or not at all. I say to you, as a worship leader who appreciates quality music, that you should sing OUT. Let your heart sing to God. God knows what it should sound like coming through your pipes! Don't hold back!

Dear Holy Advocate, give us encouragement when we are feeling timid and insecure in our abilities. Guide us to know that all of us can give you praise! Build us up as we lift you up! In your wonderful Name, we pray. Amen.