As the gentle glow of Christmas morning dawns, Psalm 98 erupts in a jubilant call to worship, appointed for Christmas Dawn in the church’s lectionary. This psalm overflows with encouragement and hope, inviting all creation to celebrate the God who has done marvelous things, most gloriously revealed in the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

“Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things!” (Ps. 98:1, ESV). These words ignite our hearts with joy, pointing us to the miracle of the Incarnation. Christmas Dawn proclaims that God has entered human history as a humble child, fulfilling His promise of salvation. The psalmist’s exuberant call urges us to join the chorus of praise, confident that God’s love, born in Bethlehem, transforms our weariness into hope. In Christ, we see God’s victory, a triumph of grace that lifts us beyond life’s trials.

The psalm celebrates God’s steadfast love and faithfulness to His people (v. 3), a promise extended to all nations through Jesus. The good news of Christmas is that salvation comes by grace through faith, a truth embodied in the Christ Child. Psalm 98 assures us that God’s righteousness is revealed (v. 2), offering encouragement that no matter our struggles—grief, doubt, or uncertainty—God’s mercy is unwavering, His presence sure.

The psalm’s imagery of creation—sea roaring, rivers clapping, hills singing (vv. 7–8)—stirs our souls, reminding us that Christ’s coming renews all things. The God who created the heavens and earth has drawn near in Jesus, promising to hold us through every storm. This is our hope: the One born in a manger is the King who reigns with love, restoring what is broken.

As we gather in worship this Christmas Dawn, let Psalm 98 inspire us to sing with abandon. Christ has come, and He will return to judge with justice (v. 9). Anchored in this promise, we are called to live boldly in God’s grace. So, let the trumpets resound and the earth rejoice—our Savior is born, and His love endures forever!

Prayer – Gracious Lord, on this radiant Christmas morning, fill our hearts with the joy of Your salvation. Let our songs rise like the psalmist’s, rejoicing in Your marvelous works. As we remember the gift of Your Son, renew in us a spirit of hope and gratitude. In the name of Jesus, our Savior and King, Amen.

Your Servant in Christ,

Rev. Brian K. Thieme
Pastor, Trinity Lutheran Church Columbia, Mo.
Missouri District