“Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.”  Martin Luther

The Lutheran Reformation in Germany occurred at a time when corruption had infiltrated the Roman Catholic Church. The selling of indulgences, novenas and other symbols of paying your way into heaven, were the working of the devil; just as he slithered through the Garden of Eden centuries before. Churches have transitioned over time, and many don’t even recognize the Bible as the true Word of God. As the new “feel good churches” pop up today, the traditional churches have taken a big hit. People don’t like hearing about sin or their connection to it. They seem to prefer music that has a beat, that fits their current emotional needs and makes no mention of the Law or the Gospel. Since it’s TBT today, I thought I’d share one of my posts from 2017. The chill of autumn stirs memories of that pivotal time in history. Maybe it’s time to start thinking about those lessons we learned as children

One of the lovely results of the Protestant Reformation is the introduction of congregational singing.  Music had already existed in the church in the liturgical singing between the priest and choir, but the congregation simply listened to the words.  This inclusion opened doors to the many hymns we sing today. This gave the common man the opportunity to not only hear the Word of God, but to participate in it.  There’s nothing like a choir of trained, rehearsed voices, but to hear the cracking voices of the elderly and the sweet sounds of children raising their enthusiastic voices in song is just as beautiful.

Giving praise and thanks to the Creator of the universe, is a great honor.  No matter what the ability, God hears the vocal prayers of His people.  Today we can lift our voices in song just as David did when he sang his Psalms to the Lord.  It’s a privilege we’ve almost forgotten.

When we are permitted to join in the responses of the Liturgy, our involvement gives us a closeness to God that simply doesn’t happen when we aren’t.  Really concentrating on those words gives us comfort, reassurance of the forgiveness of sins and a direct line to God through Jesus, Christ our Savior. Today, many churches have introduced more contemporary music for those who crave a different sound, but there is nothing like the good old Christian hymns. 

As an afterthought, my church is small. It’s located in a suburb of the city. It’s filled with those who love God. Even the youngest of our congregation (my greatgrandson) tend to sing their hearts out when the organ begins to play. We have a small choir of those who still possess the ability to hit most of the right notes. This is appreciated as a bonus by those who can’t always carry a tune.

GIVE PRAISE TO THE LORD, FOR HE IS GOOD. HIS MERCY ENDURES FOREVER.

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!