I sing for joy, O Lord, because of your steadfast love and faithfulness. My heart is in tune with the music of your teachings. I trust in your promises and praise your holy name. Amen.

Psalm 98 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Share the Joy of the Lord Introduction Psalm 98: This psalm is another song of praise that celebrates God’s faithfulness, justice and fairness. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 98:4 Sing for joy to the LORD, all the earth; praise him with songs and shouts of joy! Today’s Reading 1 Sing a new song to the LORD; he has done wonderful things! By his own power and holy strength he has won the victory. 2 The LORD announced his victory; he made his saving power known to the nations. 3 He kept his promise to the people of Israel with loyalty and constant love for them. All people everywhere have seen the victory of our God. 4 Sing for joy to the LORD, all the earth; praise him with songs and shouts of joy! 5 Sing praises to the LORD! Play music on the harps! 6 Blow trumpets and horns, and shout for joy to the LORD, our king. 7 Roar, sea, and every creature in you; sing, earth, and all who live on you! 8 Clap your hands, you rivers; you hills, sing together with joy before the LORD, 9 because he comes to rule the earth. He will rule the peoples of the world with justice and fairness. Reflect This psalm is similar to Psalm 96 and calls upon creation to join in praising God (verses 7, 8). Verse 9 declares that God rules with justice and fairness, the same words used at the end of Psalm 96. If you are familiar with the words to the Christmas carol, “Joy to the World,” you may wish to compare the words of that carol with Psalm 98 and note the similarities. Reread verses 4-6. What instructions are given for worshiping and praising the LORD? How is joy expressed in your community of faith?