Learning new songs is not always easy for me, especially in church. I often need to hear a song several times, letting the words sink in and their meaning unfold before I can sing with true joy and energy. I am deeply thankful for songwriters who give us these majestic gifts to express our love for God, and for musicians who shape melodies that lift us into worship. Still, for someone like me who is not musically inclined, picking up a new song can feel like a true challenge.

So, imagine my struggle when, on this radiant Christmas morning, the psalm calls us to “Sing a new song to the Lord”  Wouldn’t it be simpler to stick with a beloved classic? There’s comfort in the familiar tunes that stir up cherished memories and emotions. For me, “O Holy Night” is that song. Every time I hear it, I am transported to Bethlehem, marveling at the miracle of our Savior’s humble birth.

Perhaps the Psalmist’s call to sing a new song is really about celebrating God’s timeless faithfulness in a fresh way. God has always been glorious, steadfast, and worthy of praise. Maybe this psalm was written as the exiles returned from Babylon, rejoicing in God’s faithfulness as they entered a new chapter. A new song was needed to capture the wonder of what God had just done.

Maybe the Psalmist is reminding us that singing a new song helps us remember God is always making things new. This Christmas morning, we might need to remember that the God who was faithful still is-—-and is still—doing amazing things. Celebrate today by remembering the past—Christ is born—and by singing the new song that one day Christ will return. You might even find that it becomes your new favorite.

Merry Christmas!

Author: John Prichard