LBW 558, “Earth and All Stars”
Devotion
This hymn, written by Herbert Brokering in 1964, has long been a favorite of mine, perhaps because I had the privilege of learning from him in the late ’60s and early ’70s. He was one of the most creative people in our church. It’s not surprising, then, that he would author a hymn with the words of Psalm 96:1 in every verse.
New songs come from the hearts and minds of God’s people. New songs bring new life into our worship. We celebrate newness when we come together each week. We rejoice for the new life in Christ God has given us. So why do we have such a hard time with new songs and hymns? Why would we rather stick with the “old favorites” rather than sing something new?
“Earth and All Stars” is no longer a new hymn. But each time we sing it, we are reminded of how good and appropriate it is to “sing to the Lord a new song!”
Prayer
Creative God, you have blessed us with the gift of new life through Jesus, your Son our Lord. In praise and thanksgiving for this wondrous gift, lead us now to “sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things.” Amen.