Psalm 98 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 98 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. His right hand and his holy arm have gotten him victory.
Verse 2The Lord has made known his victory; he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations.
Verse 3He 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.
Verse 4Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
Verse 5Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody.
Verse 6With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.
Verse 7Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it.
Verse 8Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy
Verse 9at 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.
Devotion
Psalm 98 is a “Kingly Psalm” and uses military language to describe the victory of God over all things. This psalm is echoed throughout the lyrics of a beloved Christmas hymn welcoming our heavenly King: “Joy to the World, the Lord is Come! Let earth receive her King! Let heaven and nature sing!” Throughout these verses, the psalmist underscores that justice, faithfulness, and love is central to God’s mission for all nations and all creation. The good news is this: It is God who acts with steadfast love and faithfulness on behalf of the world—covenant language meaning God’s promises will not be broken. What is our response to God’s steadfast righteousness? Sing to the Lord a new song! May the whole of creation join in shouts of thanksgiving! For we have a heavenly King who judges the world in righteousness and the peoples with equity. Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you have revealed yourself to the world. Your mission is justice and equity for all people. Help us be your hands, feet, and lips, as we do your work in our communities and around the world while singing your praises for all you have done. Amen.
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