Let the Whole Earth Sing to the Lord

Psalm 96

Sing a new song to the Lord!
    Let the whole earth sing to the Lord!
Sing to the Lord; praise his name.
    Each day proclaim the good news that he saves.

There’s something about Christmas music that fills my heart with joy this time of year. In my imagination, I sing along flawlessly with the beautiful voices I hear on Spotify, hitting every note and lyric just right. Of course, anyone who’s ever sat in front of me at church knows my real voice doesn’t always match that dream! Still, it’s the spirit that matters, and recently, that spirit was alive during our Christmas Cantata.

A few Sundays ago, the choir filled the sanctuary with the timeless melodies we all cherish, their harmonies weaving together old favorites in refreshing new ways. They also introduced us to brand-new songs that sparkled with excitement. The church was filled with families, their voices joining together in song, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere that wrapped around everyone present. Smiles and laughter mingled with music, making the whole room feel alive with anticipation.

As the Cantata drew to a close, the lights shifted and the children of the church took their places at the front, dressed as the beloved figures from the manger scene. When their small voices rose in “Joy to the World,” every heart seemed to swell with happiness. The joy in the room was palpable, linking every moment together as we celebrated the season.

Whether you were there in person or joining online, everyone was part of this special celebration, connected through music, worship, and a sense of community. Now, take a moment to read the scripture at the top of the page—Psalm 96 reminds us, “Let the whole earth sing to the Lord!” That’s exactly what happened at St. Andrew. If you missed it, I encourage you to watch the live stream and let your heart join in the chorus!

Paula Heiney