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 the special memories of 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 anchor in our mind.
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. For many years she directed the choir at the Frist United Methodist Church in Sterling, OK. When the pastor asked her about music, it was as if she moved right passed her illness and joy was 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.
“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, Online Campus Pastor
