June 19, 2024

“He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.” -Psalm 40:3

Music is a powerful language. Rhythms and melodies can lift a person’s spirit and carry them to the highest of heights. Well-written lyrics, when paired with the right tune, can carry the message of love, hope, joy and so much more. Many of the pivotal events of history have a soundtrack that mark those special moments with beautiful music. Our lives are much the same. When we hear a particular song, it often has the power to transport us back to a time in our personal journey.

I am amazed at the power of music to connect us to special memories in our lives. I believe this is one of the reasons the church has used music throughout the ages. The words and melodies of the great hymns of our faith are anchored in our minds.

I remember sitting at the bedside of my grandmother in her last days. Our pastor stopped by to visit her, and although she was very sick, she was most happy to respond when he asked her, “What are some of your favorite hymns?” Music was such an important part of my grandmother’s life. She played several instruments and loved to sing. She directed the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Sterling, OK for many years. When the pastor asked her about music, it was as if her thoughts had moved right past her illness, and joy was again evident on her face.

What songs are part of your journey? There are songs for joy and celebration and songs for times of trouble. Like my grandmother, the songs that mean so much for me are the ones that remind me that no matter what I may be facing, I am not alone. God is with me. Those are the songs that lift my spirits to the highest heights and bring peace to my soul.

Have you thought about adding music to your times of prayer and study? You could print the lyrics to one of your favorite worship songs and read it as a prayer. You could meditate on the lyrics of one of the many hymns we sing. Within the words of these songs, you will find the truth of God and learn to draw closer and closer to the one who gave us the gift of music.

“There’s within my heart a melody Jesus whispers sweet and low:Fear not, I am with thee, peace be still,in all of life’s ebb and flow.Jesus, Jesus, Jesus,sweetest name I know,fills my every longing,keeps me singing as I go.” (There’s Within My Heart a Melody, Luther B. Bridgers)

Rev. Keith King,

June 23, 2021

The Community Orchestra rehearses every Monday from 7 – 9 p.m. at the Edmond Campus Worship Center. Concerts will take place throughout the year. This is for anyone who currently plays or has previously played an instrument – all playing levels are welcome! Dues are $50 per year (50% discount for HS and college students) which cover the cost of music and supplies. Email Logan Fish for more information at lfish@stlukesokc.org

The Edmond Campus Chancel Choir rehearses every Wednesday night from 7 – 8:30 and helps lead in worship every Sunday morning in the 11 a.m. Traditional Worship Service.  You do not need to be an expert musician or have any experience singing in a choir to join.  Just come prepared to have a good time and use your gifts to bring glory to God!

All adult singers are encouraged to be a part of the Chancel Choir.  This group sings every Sunday in the 10:50 a.m. Traditional service. Rehearsals are Wednesdays from 6:30 – 8 p.m.  Contact Robert Fasol for more information rfasol@stlukesokc.org. 

An ensemble of advanced singers who sing in the 8:30 and 10:50 a.m. Traditional services at the Downtown Campus once a month.  Rehearsals are Wednesdays from 5:45 – 6:30 p.m. and one Saturday a month, 10 a.m. – noon. Contact Robert Fasol for more information rfasol@stlukesokc.org.

Bell Choir is for adults, college age and older.  The Bell Choir of St. Luke’s ring at the 11 a.m. Traditional servicein Edmond. they rehearse on Tuesday evenings in Edmond. Please contact Candace Fish for more information at cfish@stlukesokc.org