What does it mean to “sing a new song unto the Lord?” (from Psalm 96). I don’t think it’s because God is tired of the old songs, or that we’ve worn down the meaningfulness of songs we know well. Rather, I think the phrase refers to the expressions from a renewed spirit, awakened with new appreciation for God’s providence and care, that erupts into singing and praise. When we experience a fresh dose of God’s care, or receive an insight that refreshes our faith, or feel the Spirit’s nearness carrying us through challenge, we naturally want to direct praise and thanks to God. Singing a new song reminds us that we have new things to learn about God, new ways to experience God’s care and movement. New songs, and the opportunity to learn them, tap into the fun of trying something new. It’s almost like trying a new recipe that turns out to be your favorite meal.
But new hymnals? you ask. New hymnals are ways to expand our language and scope of expression. These particular hymnals include more international songs, which assists us with a sense of faith around the world. New songs tingle our imaginations and souls to see God’s work in new ways, and assist us with a broader vocabulary–musically, verbally, linguistically. Using new hymnals reminds us that God is not static. We may even be awed at new ways of thinking, feeling, and responding to God and to each other in this community of faith.
The current hymnals have served us well. Yes, they’re in very good shape, and will be a terrific gift to the new users. We haven’t worn them out, but we are ready to embrace a new hymnal (or two) because we’ve seen and been inspired by the music, language, and possibilities in the new hymnals.
Why two hymnals, you ask? Consider these comparisons, if you want to review some of the work others have done:
http://www.hymnary.org/hymnal_compare?hymnal1=GG2013&hymnal2=LUYH2013
One of the reasons we’ve selected these two hymnals is because they represent the Reformed tradition and they help integrate our faith with music in thoughtful ways, with careful attention to language and theology. The metaphors for God in the new hymnals expand our appreciation for the many ways God makes known God’s character. Imagine (this is not a stretch!) that the only metaphor you used for God was, “Father.” For many people of faith, this title is most precious and encompasses the intimacy of their faith . Others may wince with what seems to be the perpetually exclusive use of that title, and wonder about God’s many other functions and manifestations, like Comforter, Fountain, Word, and Potter.
Our introduction of these new hymnals, and, we hope, the conversation about hymns, music and worship, will continue.
For further reading, you may want to look at these articles:
http://www.christiancentury.org/article/2013-04/singing-one-book
http://www.presbyterianhymnal.org/PDF/Introducing%20Glory%20to%20God%20to%20Your%20Church.pdf
http://www.theologyinworship.com/2014/07/22/reasons-why-we-should-still-be-using-hymnals/
~Cindi Veldheer DeYoung, Worship, Prayer & Spirituality Ministry