Scripture for Today: Psalm 98:5-6 “Make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn – shout for joy before the Lord, the King.”

These long alpine horns are quite impressive.  The longer they are the more difficult they are to play as there are no finger buttons or piston valves.  It can only produce simple sounds by vibrating lips at the mouthpiece.  I tried blowing on one once and the resulting blast was anything but musical!

The alpine horn in the pastures was used to call in the cows, calm them down for milking and quiet them down for the night.  But like the ram’s horn in our verse, it was used in times past as an important signaling device, calling men to war.  The ram’s horn was an important part of many battles, including the famous Battle of Jericho.

Our verse for today is a celebration of joy, announcing God’s salvation and righteousness.  This music is celebrating God’s love and faithfulness.  These sounds together are jubilant and loud, including blasts and shouting!  It is a new song sung when the Lord comes to judge the earth.  Who is making this music?  The context says all the earth!  These instruments are accompanied by rivers clapping and mountains singing!  It will not only be a new song but a new sound; announcing the coming of righteousness and justice.

The only way I can participate in this celebration of coming justice is by being forgiven and receiving God’s grace.  I do not anticipate that future day with fear and trembling.  That is because I am His own and covered by His righteousness!  My King will establish justice and right all wrongs!

Lord, make this day a day of  joyful rehearsal!

Look familiar?  This is a summer re-post due to ministry schedule.