Anthems of Praise

 April 18, 2021

One of God’s special gifts to us is music. It has almost divine potential to stir or soothe the spirit. God used David’s harp to settle king Saul when the latter was oppressed by demonic beings. Choirs often led Israel’s soldiers into battle. The entire book of Psalms are songs, often prayers set to music. Melody, harmony, and rhythm are the musical trinity that comprises composition. It’s tragic that among the casualties of COVID induced hysteria are the music programs of our public schools. At a time when we need such expressions the most, they have disappeared. Musical venues across the country have been on standby for a year, and the damage is almost palpable. 

Churches often are among the first casualties of the dearth of musicians. Churches used to be where musicians cut their teeth. Many of the most popular singers of the 50’s through the 90’s got their start in church choirs. In our increasingly secularized society, this is less and less common, but our church is one of the exceptions to the rule. The music this morning lifted my spirit and opened my heart to receive God’s blessing. Ashley led, not only singing the lyrics, but gracing us with her incomparable smile and the warmth of her heart. Bri’s lead on “The Great I Am” was soul-stirring, while Nate’s enthusiasm with the rockabilly “Get Up,” and Katie leading the way on “Just a Closer Walk” rounded out a joy filled morning. The instrumentalists laid the foundation so well, I was itching to start a conga line. COVID related guidelines did manage to intervene to spare the congregation that spectacle.

Fast forward to 5:30, and I had the privilege of teaching beginning bass to Ethan, a young man who is eager to learn, and will hopefully someday add his talent and heart to the worship team. I am so grateful for the musicians God has given us; I know congregations who would consider themselves blessed to have a single person who could play the piano or guitar even in a rudimentary fashion. We have been blessed with three different teams and a youth band whose harmonies are exquisite. With the kids taking lessons in our School of the Arts, the excellence that blessed us this morning will continue for years to come. I am not only grateful for the musicians we have, but also for the foresight of those who saw an opportunity and poured time and energy into assembling a team of teachers who are reproducing themselves in the budding talents of the kids who are just starting out. 

The Bible tells us that God gives a new song to his people. He did that this morning, along with some old ones, too. Together, they formed an anthem of praise, and offering of our lives laid before him in musical form. It has been a great day!