Pentecost 22 — Singing into New Life

Singing into New Life

Psalm 98; Luke 20:27-38

Psalm 98 calls us to sing a new song – a song of joy, hope, and deep connection with the living God. It’s not just about ancient victories or old hymns; it’s about recognizing how God is still moving in our lives and in the world around us. Rivers clap, hills sing, and seas roar – all of creation joins in the song. That’s an invitation for us to add our voices too. Whether through music, creativity, justice work, or community-building, we are called to praise God not with repetition, but with fresh expressions rooted in the present moment.

Then in Luke 20, we find Jesus turning a trap into a teaching moment. The Sadducees want to make resurrection look ridiculous – but Jesus responds with clarity and grace. He teaches that life after death is real, but also radically different from life as we know it. The resurrection is not a simple continuation of earthly things – it’s a transformation into something eternal, beautiful, and new.

Together, these readings remind us that God is both Creator and Life-giver. We don’t need all the answers about heaven to live with hope today. Eternal life begins now, as we live generously, praise fully, and trust deeply.

Let your praise be fresh – find new ways to express gratitude and joy.

Live as resurrection people – grounded in hope, not fear, and open to transformation.

Ngā mihi
Philip

p.s. Worship leaders: You can buy a complete Order of Service and Sermon based on these readings here: https://philipgarsidebooks.com/products/worship-at-hand-pentecost-22-9-november-2025