Sing a New Song

 

(May 12, 2021) Psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl said, “Between stimulus and  response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In  our response lie our growth and our freedom.”  

During the pandemic, we’ve been challenged by unimaginable circumstances. In  that space Frankl speaks of between stimulus and response – in this case,  between the onset of COVID and our response to it -- many of us have found  strength, creativity, and resilience that had been inconceivable before. 

“Sing to the Lord a new song” 

Psalm 96:1 

When I read this verse the other day, it came to me as a reminder of the optimism  we had before the pandemic hit. It was almost as if I was hearing the words for  the first time. “Oh, yeah… I remember… I can sing. There is much to sing about,  much to celebrate, if I choose to see it. I can choose my attitude.” It was as if God  was saying to me, “You done slumping?” 

Whether we interpret it literally or figuratively, “Sing to the Lord a new song” urges us to take action. It inspires us to make a decision; to turn to the Lord and ask Him to give us the wisdom and power to choose attitudes and actions that are more loving, forgiving, patient, and joyful. It inspires us to thank God for all the  goodness around us.  

“Sing to the Lord a new song” inspires us to get out of the rut and sing a NEW  song. This might be finding new and creative ways to do our work. It might be adding an extra spark of joy to the time we spend with family, friends, and  coworkers. Maybe it’s mindfully looking someone in the eye and really listening to  an answer when we ask how they’re doing. Maybe getting out of the rut could be  trying something new like saying a prayer of thanks while we sit at a red light. Maybe it’s giving even more time or financial support to a cause. Maybe it’s humming while we drive to work to help us remember God’s goodness, which will have a positive effect on how we deal with others. 

Viktor Frankl also said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are  challenged to change ourselves.” 

So, pandemic or not, let’s sing to the Lord a new song. Let’s look with fresh eyes at the many ways God has blessed us, and thank Him for them. Let’s encourage each other to laugh, sing, play, and celebrate the life and love we have to share.  

“Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.” 

Psalm 33:3 

“Lord, give me a heart that appreciates the blessings You give us.” 

This article is a personal reflection by Gina Bedell © 2021. It and other reflections written by her invite  the reader to ponder a given topic and then seek deeper answers through prayer, additional spiritual  reading, and/or consultation with clergy or other persons who may guide the reader to a deeper faith  and understanding of God’s love and will for their life.