This Is the Day

Theology & Meaning

A gospel worship treatment of Psalm 118:24 — 'this is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it' — that captures the eschatological dimension of the original Psalm. In its context, Psalm 118 is a processional hymn celebrating the day of the LORD's salvific act, looking forward ultimately to the resurrection day (quoted in Matthew 21:42 and Acts 4:11 regarding Christ). The Christian appropriation of this verse every Sunday is theologically appropriate: every Lord's Day is a little Easter, a celebration of the resurrection 'day' that God made. Hammond's jubilant treatment expresses this eschatological joy without requiring the congregation to know the theological backstory. This song's power lies in how it translates theological truth into congregational prayer. The imagery of Christ's work moves beyond abstract doctrine into lived experience—the weight of His love becomes tangible in the worship moment. For congregations wrestling with assurance, this song provides both intellectual grounding and emotional release, reminding them that their standing before God rests entirely on Christ's finished work, not their own fluctuating righteousness. In pastoral ministry, you'll find this song particularly effective during seasons of doubt or discouragement, when worshippers need to be anchored back to foundational gospel realities. It serves as a corrective to therapeutic religion while maintaining tenderness—acknowledging both the cosmic scope of what Christ accomplished and the intensely personal nature of His love for each believer. The song refuses false comfort but offers genuine hope, grounded in redemptive history.

Worship Leadership Tips

Works as a high-energy opening song for Sunday morning worship, especially effective for celebration services or Easter Season. The simple, singable melody means even first-time visitors can join quickly. The joy it generates at the top of a service prepares the congregation for genuine encounter. Pay careful attention to congregational familiarity. This song works most powerfully when people sing it from the heart rather than from paper. If your congregation is learning it, consider leading it across multiple weeks to allow it to settle into their memory. The pacing matters: rushing the tempo steals contemplative power. When positioned as a response to Scripture or sermon, let the word-music relationship speak without over-explanation. The song's theology is clear and will land differently in different hearts. Some worshippers need it for personal assurance; others need it to deepen understanding of Christ's work; still others sing it as thanksgiving for grace already experienced. Trust the song to do its work in the Spirit's hands.

Arrangement Tips

Full band from the start with a bright, upbeat feel. The song invites handclapping, movement, and fully engaged physical worship. Bass and drums provide the rhythmic foundation with organ fills and bright piano. A brief vamp at the end — improvised choir lines over the repeating tag — allows the moment to breathe and extend naturally. Consider what instruments enter and when. Start simply, add layers gradually, then strip back for intimate moments. This respects both the congregation's singing ability and the song's theological weight. For smaller churches, piano with cello gives support without overwhelming. In larger settings, be judicious with drums—a light brush can suggest the meter. Electric guitar should create harmonic interest rather than double the keyboard. Remember: support congregational singing and theological meditation.

Scripture References

• Psalm 118:24
• Psalm 100:4
• Nehemiah 8:10
• Psalm 92:1-2
• Lamentations 3:23