God Has Revealed to the Nations, Saving Power
In the course of the 3-year cycle of readings and psalms, including solemnities, palm 98 is used six times. The refrains vary as well as the selection of verses, and hymns “All the Ends of the Earth” and “Sing a New Song” are based on this psalm. On this 6th Sunday of Easter, the psalmist calls us to proclaim that God’s saving power is revealed to all nations. Psalm 98 is one of a series of consecutive psalms inviting the hearer to join in praising God as savior/deliverer, ruler/sovereign, judge/lawgiver. All people are called to see God’s work of salvation and give praise. Emphasizing the message of the 1st reading in which the Holy Spirit comes upon the gentiles, the waters of baptism are open to all. We praise God for being called, being chosen.
We sing to you, O God, a new song, for you have done wonderful things!
Your saving hand and your holy arm have given the victory.
You have made known your salvation; have revealed your justice to the nations.
You have remembered your love and your faithfulness for the house of Israel.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Make a joyful noise, all the earth; break forth into joyous song!
[verses adapted from People’s Companion to the Breviary © 1997 by the Carmelites of Indianapolis]