Singing New Songs

Psalm 96 begins, “Sing to the Lord a new song….” Why a “new song?” When I think about music and the worship of the Lord, I am reminded of two basic musical purposes. One is to help us remember what God has done and the other is to remind us of who God is. Old songs tell the story of God over the last years, decades and centuries. New songs remind us that God is still at work in our time and circumstances. The church must always encourage the writing of new songs while not neglecting those of the past. I’m thinking of some great songs from the 70s and 80s I haven’t heard for awhile. I am also thrilled with new music that emerges from dear friends like Joel Hanson and Carol Zimmerman. Many thanks to them and the many artists who help us see the God of yesterday still active today.