Musical Thoughts

I’ve learned a lot of songs in my life – both to sing and to play on the guitar. I have sounds in the ears of my heart from recovery meetings and chapels in prison of folks singing and of their hearts being touched by the truth of God’s word as they sang.

I’ve been thinking  these days of the many times we sang the song:  “Your love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on me.”  The joy and enthusiasm in the voices and on the faces of the men and women – some with tears in their eyes – as they proclaim this truth.  For some, probably a hope and a longing more than a solid faith but a beginning.

Well, I came across Psalm 98 in my readings these dats and it’s one of those songs I learned in the early 70’s. I still smile when I think how rock and roll” the music style of people like Keith Green were back then and then listen to the music now – 40-50 years later.  They are like ballads!!

There are certain verses of scripture that I cannot read without having the music of those songs go through my head.  Even though they are simple little melodies I’m glad to have them tucked away some where in my long term memory and to have them touch my heart each time the reading of the word triggers the memory. 

Well today, these are a newer version than the old King James version I learned the song way back when, but let’s pray some verses from this Psalm 98 and let it motivate us to praise God with our own songs along with the songs of creation – as this Psalm teaches us.

Go ahead—sing your brand-new song to the Lord!  He is famous for his miracles and marvels, for he is victorious through his mighty power and holy strength.

Everyone knows how God has saved us, for he has displayed his justice throughout history. He never forgets to show us his love and faithfulness.

So go ahead, everyone, and shout out your praises with joy! Break out of the box and let loose with the most joyous sound of praise! Sing your melody of praise to the Lord and make music like never before!

Excerpts from Psalm 98

Every one of our stories, Loving God, has examples of ways You have showing Your mighty power and holy strength on our behalf.  You have shown us love and faithfulness, many many times when we did not deserve it.  Thank you.

Let the ocean’s waves join in the chorus with their roaring praise until everyone everywhere shouts out in unison, “Glory to the Lord!” Let the rivers and streams clap with applause as the mountains rise in a standing ovation to join the mighty choir of exaltation.

Look! Here he comes! The Lord and judge of all the earth! He’s coming to make things right and to do it fair and square. And everyone will see that he does all things well!

Excerpts from Psalm 98

I like that, God, that you do things fair and square.  You make things right and everything You do, You do well.

 Help us to trust that goodness and that unfailing love You have for us today.  Amen