When you open your hymnal, you may notice that tucked amongst the hymns and liturgy are the Psalms—numbered, pointed, and often chanted. These aren’t just “extras.” The Psalms are the oldest hymnbook of the Church, given by God Himself. Israel sang them in the temple; Jesus prayed them on the cross. When we sing the Psalms today, we join in the same prayers that have shaped God’s people for thousands of years. The Psalms in worship connect us to Christ in a special way.
Nearly every human emotion - joy, sorrow, fear, thanksgiving, repentance - finds its voice in these inspired songs. Luther once called the Psalter “a little Bible” because in it we see the whole sweep of God’s mercy and promise. Singing Psalms may feel unusual at first, but it invites us to slow down, breathe with the words, and let Scripture itself dwell richly in us. Unlike a spoken recitation, song carries the Word deeper into our hearts. So, when you join in singing the appointed Psalm each Sunday, remember this is not filler, but the Spirit’s own hymnbook placed on your lips.
In Christ,
Zach Hastings
Director of Music
Zach Hastings is the Director of Music at Pacific Hills Lutheran Church in Omaha NebraskaZach studied organ performance at Iowa State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music in 2016. He has been an organist, bell choir director, and director of worship primarily in the central Iowa area. He continually seeks opportunities to grow as a musician through various conferences and seminars. Zach currently serves on the Central Iowa American Guild of Organists (AGO) Executive Committee, and on the American Guild of Organists Young Organists (AGOYO) National Board.
Pacific Hills Lutheran Church is a member of the