As I write this morning, it is 24 hours until my first Christmas airport run. By the end of the day Thursday (12/23) Karen and I will be enjoying a house filled with our grown kids, a baby-sat cat, and boisterous conversation and laughter. A lot like Christmas, to us!
Christmas Eve we will wake up and some of us, at least, will structure the morning to be sure to catch the live broadcast of "A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols" from King's College, Cambridge. This is the most widely broadcast radio event of the year, world-wide, and the largest radio audience. Sort of like the World Cup of Christmas Eve music and worship, except it is the same "team" each year and there is no one else on the field. So, I guess really it isn't much like the World Cup ... except for the vast numbers that tune into it.
Our kids have grown up with Christmas Eve being built around Dad's work. They have participated in many a service themselves (lots of stories there!) and they have also patiently waited for some aspects of our celebration dinner on that night. This is our 15th Christmas at College Church, and our Christmas Eve dinner has a rhythm to it that connects us all to our years in Minnesota. It is when our family Christmas begins in earnest.
We used to attend a very special Christmas play, in St. Paul, MN. "The Black Nativity" combines the words of the Christmas story from the King James, some poetry by Langston Hughes, and a dozen or more traditional, spiritual, and gospel Christmas songs. It is a glorious mix, and when I say "our dinner has a rhythm to it," I am not only speaking metaphorically!
Christmas 1995: we did not know this was going to be our last Christmas in Minnesota. We were just making a complicated evening work between services and keeping up a family tradition. For the first time (and as far as I know, the only time), "The Black Nativity" was broadcast on Minnesota Public Radio. We had just enough time after our early service to get home, turn on the radio, and pop in a cassette tape. We had to tape the program, because Dad needed to head back to church before the 90-minute broadcast would conclude. It was a clear, brisk, starry night with perfect radio reception, and we snagged a very sharp recording. Which we labeled and put away.
Christmas 1996: our first in Wheaton, and after the early service we all got home and started to lay out the traditional Christmas Eve smorgasborg. Karen found our "Black Nativity" tape - unplayed for the full year - and as we set the table and finished up in the kitchen, we were transported back not only to the previous C. Eve, but to all the times we had attended the play. This became "a lot like Christmas" for us. It became official then (I probably made a rule. I love to make rules) - "Black Nativity" shall only be played once a year, on Christmas Eve.
So that is the scene, every December 24. Mom and Dad return from the family service, and the kids have got out this year's new candle holder for the center of the table. (Always a "surprise" from Dad to Mom.) "Black Nativity" is all cued up, and to the opening a cappella strains of the black preacher, "Come, ye disconsolate," we hit our stride (literally) of preparation. By the time the alto sings "Sweet Little Jesus Boy" we are sitting down at the table, pause the tape [which we have since transferred to CD to preserve its quality!] to light our Christ candle, and then we eat and sing and laugh and dance to the Christmas story as re-told in word and song by recently freed slaves in a barn cum church cum Bethlehem with Mary, Joseph, townsfolk, shepherds and all.
I'm told that there is the chance that at least one of our grown children might actually listen to her recording of "Black Nativity" before Christmas Eve. But you know, I choose to doubt it.
Check the links above to learn how to tune in to hear "Lessons and Carols" from King's College (WFMT or live streaming audio). Then sit down with a cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa, and a scone, and enjoy 90 glorious minutes of worship! It's Friday at 9am central standard time. And at the appropriate times with the congregation sitting in that cold chapel,
Sing on!
22 December 2010
01 December 2010
Everywhere you go
'Tis the season! Today there is a light dusting of snow in progress as I write. Not enough, yet, to complicate life, but enough to show up on the grass and trees. The northern European, Currier & Ives, Norman Rockwell images of Christmas are starting to come into focus once again. "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas" and "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas" - everywhere you go!
On the internet, too, Christmas standards are showing up as viral videos. A couple of columns ago I posted a flashmob video that brings together two of my passions - choir and bicycles. By now most of you will have seen at least one of the "Hallelujah Chorus" flashmob videos. Choir insinuates itself into a crowded public space, recorded orchestra kicks in, and voila! this shopper and that mom and the other custodian are actually choristers who regale the unsuspecting crowd with a glorious Handel chorus. It really is inspiring, and I can't see these without a lump in my throat and without wondering, "could we pull that off?" So far, the videos are everywhere you go, but I don't know anyone who has been present in an actual flashmob scene.
But also everywhere you go, if you have the ears for it, you may hear the Gospel being sung in unusual places. Unabashedly clear, classic Christmas carols and hymns proclaim, "Christ the Savior is born!" and "Sweet little Jesus boy - we didn't know who you was" and "Mild he lays his glory by, born that man no more may die ... born to give us second birth." Lately I find myself praying in those places, "Lord, give people ears to hear these words! Then take them some place they can do something about it."
We have a number of occasions to be that place where people who hear Christmas music can take the next step in understanding and responding to its Gospel message. The children's choirs festival, "The Christmas Gift" is an excellent guest event, with the Gospel winsomely and clearly presented by our children. The carol service, "Enter In," likewise has a clear message which listeners may "enter into" by singing familiar carols. Pastor Moody will help connect the Christmas-Gospel dots with a few comments in that service. Then the annual Christmas Communion service explores and celebrates the twin themes: God With Us/God For Us, or Incaration/Atonement, with a Christmas service that takes place around the communion table. A full, rich picture of the Gospel.
Not to mention the Christmas Eve services. Christmas Eve is the greatest "guest service" of the year across America. More un-churched people will be in a church that evening than on Easter morning. And we have some beautiful services - precious metal into which is set the jewel of the gospel.
Many of you will participate musically in one or more of these services and events. I encourage all of us to invite others to attend:
Dec. 5 - 6pm - "The Christmas Gift" with the Children's Choirs and College Church Singers
Dec. 12 - 6pm - "Enter In" with the Chancel Choir and Orchestra
Dec. 19 - 6pm - Christmas Communion
Christmas Eve services on Friday, De.c 24, at 4pm (for families with young children), 8 and 11pm (candlelight services).
The music is everywhere you go. And so is the Gospel! Enjoy it as you
Sing on!
On the internet, too, Christmas standards are showing up as viral videos. A couple of columns ago I posted a flashmob video that brings together two of my passions - choir and bicycles. By now most of you will have seen at least one of the "Hallelujah Chorus" flashmob videos. Choir insinuates itself into a crowded public space, recorded orchestra kicks in, and voila! this shopper and that mom and the other custodian are actually choristers who regale the unsuspecting crowd with a glorious Handel chorus. It really is inspiring, and I can't see these without a lump in my throat and without wondering, "could we pull that off?" So far, the videos are everywhere you go, but I don't know anyone who has been present in an actual flashmob scene.
But also everywhere you go, if you have the ears for it, you may hear the Gospel being sung in unusual places. Unabashedly clear, classic Christmas carols and hymns proclaim, "Christ the Savior is born!" and "Sweet little Jesus boy - we didn't know who you was" and "Mild he lays his glory by, born that man no more may die ... born to give us second birth." Lately I find myself praying in those places, "Lord, give people ears to hear these words! Then take them some place they can do something about it."
We have a number of occasions to be that place where people who hear Christmas music can take the next step in understanding and responding to its Gospel message. The children's choirs festival, "The Christmas Gift" is an excellent guest event, with the Gospel winsomely and clearly presented by our children. The carol service, "Enter In," likewise has a clear message which listeners may "enter into" by singing familiar carols. Pastor Moody will help connect the Christmas-Gospel dots with a few comments in that service. Then the annual Christmas Communion service explores and celebrates the twin themes: God With Us/God For Us, or Incaration/Atonement, with a Christmas service that takes place around the communion table. A full, rich picture of the Gospel.
Not to mention the Christmas Eve services. Christmas Eve is the greatest "guest service" of the year across America. More un-churched people will be in a church that evening than on Easter morning. And we have some beautiful services - precious metal into which is set the jewel of the gospel.
Many of you will participate musically in one or more of these services and events. I encourage all of us to invite others to attend:
Dec. 5 - 6pm - "The Christmas Gift" with the Children's Choirs and College Church Singers
Dec. 12 - 6pm - "Enter In" with the Chancel Choir and Orchestra
Dec. 19 - 6pm - Christmas Communion
Christmas Eve services on Friday, De.c 24, at 4pm (for families with young children), 8 and 11pm (candlelight services).
The music is everywhere you go. And so is the Gospel! Enjoy it as you
Sing on!
17 November 2010
Gettin' Ready
My grown children still suffer under the parental edict banning the playing of Christmas music before the day after Thanksgiving. I won't say they don't listen - but I know they feel guilty if they do, or they feel they have to justify it! And to be honest, I think they have come to appreciate the edict and enjoy its payoff on what shoppers call "Black Friday." We stay home and make it a day of light.
I mean, how else to make "Advent" a season of preparation? How else to guard against being jaded against the glut of Christmas music?
To be honest, the ban began long ago in our home. Because I have to listen to the music and prepare scores then rehearse pieces for choir, I just didn't want to hear more of it at home. Pretty selfish, eh? But then the day after Thanksgiving became this magic day in our home. The LPs - then the tapes, and then the CDs, and now the iTunes - come out, the stereos are turned up to "11" and the decorations come out. After Thanksgiving Friday, the next time we will all be together will be our festive Christmas Eve dinner - when again the stereo will accompany our preparations and draw us together with music and drama of the Nativity. (More on that night later this season.)
One of my sons prompted this reflection today by sending me a link to a new song by Paul Simon, "Gettin' Ready." Pat's subject heading, "for the day after Thanksgiving," was his nod to the ban. But I'm sure he knew I was hooked when I saw the link to a Paul Simon song. (Busted - I am a huge Simon fan.) My self-justification is that (a) I am at work and free to listen to Christmas music any time I need to; and (b) it isn't a Christmas song, per se, but an Advent song!
Yes, perhaps my children have also learned from me to how to justify breaking the ban.
Click here to hear "Gettin' Ready" and ... um,
Sing on!
I mean, how else to make "Advent" a season of preparation? How else to guard against being jaded against the glut of Christmas music?
To be honest, the ban began long ago in our home. Because I have to listen to the music and prepare scores then rehearse pieces for choir, I just didn't want to hear more of it at home. Pretty selfish, eh? But then the day after Thanksgiving became this magic day in our home. The LPs - then the tapes, and then the CDs, and now the iTunes - come out, the stereos are turned up to "11" and the decorations come out. After Thanksgiving Friday, the next time we will all be together will be our festive Christmas Eve dinner - when again the stereo will accompany our preparations and draw us together with music and drama of the Nativity. (More on that night later this season.)
One of my sons prompted this reflection today by sending me a link to a new song by Paul Simon, "Gettin' Ready." Pat's subject heading, "for the day after Thanksgiving," was his nod to the ban. But I'm sure he knew I was hooked when I saw the link to a Paul Simon song. (Busted - I am a huge Simon fan.) My self-justification is that (a) I am at work and free to listen to Christmas music any time I need to; and (b) it isn't a Christmas song, per se, but an Advent song!
Yes, perhaps my children have also learned from me to how to justify breaking the ban.
Click here to hear "Gettin' Ready" and ... um,
Sing on!
20 October 2010
Doxological Evangelism
That's a fancy term for what Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 14 - the passage to be preached this coming Sunday morning. Making his way to the end of his teaching on the spiritual gifts, Paul walks that discussion into the gathering that we call "worship." Here, he says, is what the exercise of gifts looks like on Sunday morning (as it were)!
"Doxological evangelism" is a phrase gaining broad use these days. It pretty much means that when believers engage in authentic gathered worship, and unbelievers see us at it, our worship has an evangelistic impact.\: from our praise (doxology) to their confession of faith (evangelism).
The passage walks the Corinthian church through the questions and issues related to speaking in tongues. Paul argues that plain words of proclamation (prophecy) have a greater impact on hearers, believers and unbelievers alike. We take this to mean, in our context, that our reading, praying, and preaching must be both faithful to the scripture and understandable to those who are not yet believers.
How does this apply to music? Well, first we note that Paul uses musical examples throughout this chapter:
If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? (1 Cor. 14:7-8) And in the next paragraph: What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also. (v. 15) Now, these are just examples Paul gives, but note that with them he has introduced music into the discussion. And - this is an observation that begs further exploration - he does so in a way that explains his transitional verse, 14:26. For which, read on!
The "end game" of Paul's argument about understandability is this: But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you. (vv. 24-25) That is "doxological evangelism." But, you say, the chapter is about prophecy versus tongues. How does music fit in?
1 Cor. 14:26-27: What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. (emphasis added) In our worship, and in our worship's evangelistic potential, singing plays a part. The things brought into the gathering include "a hymn" - which is useful along with all the other gifts in this list, "for building up." This hymn, then, is also a feature of the total impact on the unbeliever in the assembly. It must meet the same criteria as the lesson, revelation, tongue/interpretation. It is to be, in other words, prophetic.
This is why we take such care with what we sing. It is also why we choose the ways we sing. We want all who assemble to be able to sing with clarity the words chosen to be sung. Great care, and much prayer, has to guide these choices so that the church is built even through our singing, and that those "looking in" will see God among us!
A fascinating connection, which I am just now seeing: In 1 Cor. 14:7, Paul mentions the flute and harp. In verse 26 he mentions hymns. The AV and NAS translate (transliterate?) the word driectly from Greek: psalm. The New Testament uses two words for the verb "to sing" - in effect "to psalm" which implies instrumental and vocal music together, and "to sing" which is never used in relation to instruments. So, for example, in Ephesians Eph. 5:19, we read: addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and psalming [making melody] to the Lord with all your heart ... Well, a little tidbit which I am beginning to think is not "trivia" but further insight into the Corinthian church. Were there instruments at use? It is entirely possible. And these, too, as in the Temple, may be a part of our doxological evangelism.
Sing on!
"Doxological evangelism" is a phrase gaining broad use these days. It pretty much means that when believers engage in authentic gathered worship, and unbelievers see us at it, our worship has an evangelistic impact.\: from our praise (doxology) to their confession of faith (evangelism).
The passage walks the Corinthian church through the questions and issues related to speaking in tongues. Paul argues that plain words of proclamation (prophecy) have a greater impact on hearers, believers and unbelievers alike. We take this to mean, in our context, that our reading, praying, and preaching must be both faithful to the scripture and understandable to those who are not yet believers.
How does this apply to music? Well, first we note that Paul uses musical examples throughout this chapter:
If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? (1 Cor. 14:7-8) And in the next paragraph: What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also. (v. 15) Now, these are just examples Paul gives, but note that with them he has introduced music into the discussion. And - this is an observation that begs further exploration - he does so in a way that explains his transitional verse, 14:26. For which, read on!
The "end game" of Paul's argument about understandability is this: But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you. (vv. 24-25) That is "doxological evangelism." But, you say, the chapter is about prophecy versus tongues. How does music fit in?
1 Cor. 14:26-27: What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. (emphasis added) In our worship, and in our worship's evangelistic potential, singing plays a part. The things brought into the gathering include "a hymn" - which is useful along with all the other gifts in this list, "for building up." This hymn, then, is also a feature of the total impact on the unbeliever in the assembly. It must meet the same criteria as the lesson, revelation, tongue/interpretation. It is to be, in other words, prophetic.
This is why we take such care with what we sing. It is also why we choose the ways we sing. We want all who assemble to be able to sing with clarity the words chosen to be sung. Great care, and much prayer, has to guide these choices so that the church is built even through our singing, and that those "looking in" will see God among us!
A fascinating connection, which I am just now seeing: In 1 Cor. 14:7, Paul mentions the flute and harp. In verse 26 he mentions hymns. The AV and NAS translate (transliterate?) the word driectly from Greek: psalm. The New Testament uses two words for the verb "to sing" - in effect "to psalm" which implies instrumental and vocal music together, and "to sing" which is never used in relation to instruments. So, for example, in Ephesians Eph. 5:19, we read: addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and psalming [making melody] to the Lord with all your heart ... Well, a little tidbit which I am beginning to think is not "trivia" but further insight into the Corinthian church. Were there instruments at use? It is entirely possible. And these, too, as in the Temple, may be a part of our doxological evangelism.
Sing on!
14 October 2010
Two Passions
Well, I saw this some time ago, and then again recently. The first time, it was posted on a choral music site. More recently on a bicycling forum. It gets me because it brings together two things I enjoy quite a bit.
And while it isn't the kind of choir that I'll ever direct (or that most of you will likely sing in), it is inspiring.
I often dream of a musical bicycling ministry team - think Italy, or China, on bikes!
Lately, the "flashmob" thing has me wondering ... what might happen closer to home? How crazy is that?
Enjoy, and
Sing on!
And while it isn't the kind of choir that I'll ever direct (or that most of you will likely sing in), it is inspiring.
I often dream of a musical bicycling ministry team - think Italy, or China, on bikes!
Lately, the "flashmob" thing has me wondering ... what might happen closer to home? How crazy is that?
Enjoy, and
Sing on!
05 October 2010
Hymn Makers
I came to College Church, 14 years ago, from a church with three morning services, in two styles. We had made a real attempt to present a contemporary service with substance, with the same values as our more traditional service. It was a challenge - usually a fun challenge - to present the same themes in two related but distinct services.
Ultimately, it was a failure. 14 years ago, it was almost impossible to adequtely present many biblical themes with real substance, using only contemporary materials. We could sing "our God is an awesome God," but could not go deeply and sing that he is "immortal, invisible, God only wise." I heard one songwriter in the praise and worship genre say that after his songs became more theologically thoughtful, publishers became less interested in them. (Happily, this man ended up in a church pastored by a friend of mine, who continued to encourage him to write deeply!) It was discouraging. So coming to College Church with its passionate commitment to hymn singing was refreshing and invigorating.
I still have no interest in what is called "contemporary worship" (whatever is meant by that), and there is still a lot of dreck being put forth for use in that medium. But I am happy to say that the past decade has brought a lot more depth, substance, and historical material into the contemporary arena. In particular, "old hymns" have been "re-discovered" and cast into new forms for singing by congregations of all ages. In most cases, these settings even preserve the old language!
Granted, even in that trend there are at least as many misses as hits. There are still worship-leading-guitar-players who lack the melodic craft to produce a melody that people can and want to sing for years to come. I don't worry about that. Review old hymnals, compare them to newer hymnals, and you will see that over time the church does a pretty good job of sifting through dreadful material, and to leave the truly timeless in our hands. Thank God for that work of the Spirit among us! And ask him for the discernment of your music leadership to make good decisions week after week.
It's refreshing to know that it isn't only the "contemporary" church that is writing and learning new melodies for old texts. Open in front of me as I write is a collection called "The Hymn Makers," which the Chancel Choir will receive in this week's rehearsals. In it are settings of hymns by Charles Wesley, John Newton, Isaac Watts and William Cowper, with new melodies by Christopher Norton. Of the 9 texts in the book, only 1 is reasonably well known: Cowper's "God moves in a mysterious way." Another text is becoming well known by means of that guitar-driven movement mentioned above - a good idea to get young people singing this great Newton text, but not providing a worthy tune for it. You may trust me on this.
Beyond that, this collection gives life to hymns that are not appearing in modern hymnals, but that I would hope we do not lose in our worship repertoire. Here is the first of those hymns, which the Choir will be singing in worship sometime this Fall. Some of you will know these words (and our new tune) from Greg Wheatley's program "Sound of Majesty" Thanks, Greg!
Let us love and sing and wonder,
let us sing the Savior's name!
He has hushed the law's loud thunder,
he has quenched Mount Sinai's flame:
He has washed us with his blood,
he has brought us nigh to God.
Let us love, the Lord who bought us,
pitied us when enemies,
called us by his greace and taught us,
gave us ears and gave us eyes:
He has washed us with his blood,
he presents our souls to God.
Let us sing, though fierce temptations
threaten hard to bear us down!
For the Lord, our strong salvation,
holds in view the conqueror's crown:
He who washed us with his blood
soon will bring us home to God.
Let us wonder; grace and justice
join, and point to mercy's store;
when through grace in Christ our trust is,
justice smiles, and asks no more.
He who washed us with his blood
has secured our way to God.
Let us praise, and join the chorus
of the saints enthroned on high;
here they trusted him before us.
Now their praises fill the sky:
"Thou hast washed us with Thy blood;
Thou art worthy, Lamb of God."
New songs or old, there's always something to learn and love.
Sing on!
Ultimately, it was a failure. 14 years ago, it was almost impossible to adequtely present many biblical themes with real substance, using only contemporary materials. We could sing "our God is an awesome God," but could not go deeply and sing that he is "immortal, invisible, God only wise." I heard one songwriter in the praise and worship genre say that after his songs became more theologically thoughtful, publishers became less interested in them. (Happily, this man ended up in a church pastored by a friend of mine, who continued to encourage him to write deeply!) It was discouraging. So coming to College Church with its passionate commitment to hymn singing was refreshing and invigorating.
I still have no interest in what is called "contemporary worship" (whatever is meant by that), and there is still a lot of dreck being put forth for use in that medium. But I am happy to say that the past decade has brought a lot more depth, substance, and historical material into the contemporary arena. In particular, "old hymns" have been "re-discovered" and cast into new forms for singing by congregations of all ages. In most cases, these settings even preserve the old language!
Granted, even in that trend there are at least as many misses as hits. There are still worship-leading-guitar-players who lack the melodic craft to produce a melody that people can and want to sing for years to come. I don't worry about that. Review old hymnals, compare them to newer hymnals, and you will see that over time the church does a pretty good job of sifting through dreadful material, and to leave the truly timeless in our hands. Thank God for that work of the Spirit among us! And ask him for the discernment of your music leadership to make good decisions week after week.
It's refreshing to know that it isn't only the "contemporary" church that is writing and learning new melodies for old texts. Open in front of me as I write is a collection called "The Hymn Makers," which the Chancel Choir will receive in this week's rehearsals. In it are settings of hymns by Charles Wesley, John Newton, Isaac Watts and William Cowper, with new melodies by Christopher Norton. Of the 9 texts in the book, only 1 is reasonably well known: Cowper's "God moves in a mysterious way." Another text is becoming well known by means of that guitar-driven movement mentioned above - a good idea to get young people singing this great Newton text, but not providing a worthy tune for it. You may trust me on this.
Beyond that, this collection gives life to hymns that are not appearing in modern hymnals, but that I would hope we do not lose in our worship repertoire. Here is the first of those hymns, which the Choir will be singing in worship sometime this Fall. Some of you will know these words (and our new tune) from Greg Wheatley's program "Sound of Majesty" Thanks, Greg!
Let us love and sing and wonder,
let us sing the Savior's name!
He has hushed the law's loud thunder,
he has quenched Mount Sinai's flame:
He has washed us with his blood,
he has brought us nigh to God.
Let us love, the Lord who bought us,
pitied us when enemies,
called us by his greace and taught us,
gave us ears and gave us eyes:
He has washed us with his blood,
he presents our souls to God.
Let us sing, though fierce temptations
threaten hard to bear us down!
For the Lord, our strong salvation,
holds in view the conqueror's crown:
He who washed us with his blood
soon will bring us home to God.
Let us wonder; grace and justice
join, and point to mercy's store;
when through grace in Christ our trust is,
justice smiles, and asks no more.
He who washed us with his blood
has secured our way to God.
Let us praise, and join the chorus
of the saints enthroned on high;
here they trusted him before us.
Now their praises fill the sky:
"Thou hast washed us with Thy blood;
Thou art worthy, Lamb of God."
John Newton
New songs or old, there's always something to learn and love.
Sing on!
15 September 2010
And now a word from our readers
In a move that might be seen as abdication, I want to invite readers of Knowing the Score to consider contributing to Knowing the Score. Here's why, what, and how ...
WHY?
I'm eager to see what you have to bring to our shared ministry on this page. Meanwhile, I'll continue to write as well. So you see, it's not a complete abdication!
Sing on!
P.S. - not counting this p.s., this post is 458 words long. That gives you an idea of maximum length
WHY?
- After 14 years of writing this column, I feel I am not offering as much as I'd like to.
- During a very busy season of life and ministry, it is not as easy to get to the column each week, and I find that I am not as fresh as I'd like to be, when I do sit down to write.
- I am learning that an engaging feature of "blogs" is the community that can develop through them. At some point this year, through our church website, this blog format will change and this page will become much more interactive and communal.
- In the meantime, I invite all who may be interested to submit material for posting here. And I look forward to reading what others may bring!
- Contrary to my own practice, blog entries need not be lengthy, wordy, mini-sermons or rants! Some of my favorite blogs to read are short, pithy, clear, and often they point to something found elsewhere (an article, a video, a song, etc.)
- Some ground-rules and expectations: 1) entries must be under 500 words in length, not including the quotation of scripture, hymns, or sacred songs. 2) entries may be biblical, theological, hymnological, liturgical, or observational. 3) entries should have some connection to private, devotional, or gathered worship, whether specifically musical or not.
- In general we will look for stand-alone (one-off) submissions. But ideas for a series will be entertained.
- My role as pastor/editor: I retain the right to edit contributions. I do not promise or guarantee that I will print whatever is submitted. I may return an item with suggestions or questions, and invite you to re-submit it.
- Contributions may be sent to me through this email address: music@college-church.org
- Articles may be in a Word document, or in the body of an email.
- Embedded photos or video will be welcomed.
I'm eager to see what you have to bring to our shared ministry on this page. Meanwhile, I'll continue to write as well. So you see, it's not a complete abdication!
Sing on!
P.S. - not counting this p.s., this post is 458 words long. That gives you an idea of maximum length
18 August 2010
Planted and Singing
I had occasion this summer, on two Sundays, to attend services with our church plant congregations. I'm glad to report that congregational song is alive and well in these newer, younger, churches. Fellowship was warm and vibrant, the preaching was good, and I felt very much at home in both settings.
Many of you know that our first church plant, Holy Trinity Church, Chicago (Hyde Park) has now rhizomed (not a real verb, sorry) three additional congregations: Downtown, West side and North side. More are sure to come as the church reaches into more and more of the city's neighborhoods and communities. I have yet to visit the newest, on the north side. But in every setting of Holy Trinity I have sensed the "DNA" of College Church, expressed appropriate to their settings, membership, and outreach focus. And they all have music presented with satisfying quality.
Our closest church is New Covenant, in Naperville. This church is closest in several ways: chronologically, geographically, service structure and feel, and personnel! You will recall that a significant number of musicians were core members in New Covenant, and it really shows in their services. Even in the middle of July, the service had a nice "College Church" feel to it.
The musical styles were quite different between these two experiences. But in both places, music worked as ministry of the Word, and at the Holy Trinity service Downtown I was reminded of a great Charles Wesley hymn text which we need to be sure to sing in the coming weeks. Now, I have to say ... we will not be singing it to the tune and arrangement used downtown. (That's another issue altogether!) But it is a potent hymn, and I am eager to have our own congregation sing it soon. (Yes, I'll say it ... to a better tune.)
Arise, my soul, arise,
shake off your guilty fears;
the bleeding Sacrifice
in my behalf appears;
before the throne my Surety stands,
my name is written on his hands.
He ever lives above,
for me to intercede,
his all-redeeming love,
his precious blood to plead;
his blood atoned for every race,
and sprinkles now the throne of grace.
Five bleeding wounds he bears,
received on Calvary;
they pour effectual prayers,
they strongly plead for me.
"Forgive him, oh forgive," they cry,
"nor let that ransomed sinner die!"
My God is reconciled;
his pardoning voice I hear;
he owns me for his child,
I can no longer fear;
with confidence I now draw nigh,
and "Father, Abba, Father!" cry.
And now, as I type these words out, I realize why they have stuck with me so strongly over the past month. They resonate, they come from, they echo, the Romans 8 passage of our Anchor Memory program!
Our newest church plant is beginning to pick up steam. It will be in Lombard, with Pastor Jeff Brewer. Jeff is warm-hearted, dynamic, engaging ... and a real hymn lover. We can look forward to hearing, and singing, the ministry of the Word, with our friends in Lombard from this coming Easter.
By the way, in case you didn't click the link above: a rhizome is a characteristically horizontal stem of a plant, growing beneath or along the ground, from which new shoots of a plant take root and grow. Rhizomes are why it's almost impossible for us to get rid of the ribbon grass in my back yard. On the positive side, rhizomes are how certain herbs and perennial flowers keep flourishing. It is a good metaphor for a church plant, and for our own witness of the gospel.
Sing on!
Many of you know that our first church plant, Holy Trinity Church, Chicago (Hyde Park) has now rhizomed (not a real verb, sorry) three additional congregations: Downtown, West side and North side. More are sure to come as the church reaches into more and more of the city's neighborhoods and communities. I have yet to visit the newest, on the north side. But in every setting of Holy Trinity I have sensed the "DNA" of College Church, expressed appropriate to their settings, membership, and outreach focus. And they all have music presented with satisfying quality.
Our closest church is New Covenant, in Naperville. This church is closest in several ways: chronologically, geographically, service structure and feel, and personnel! You will recall that a significant number of musicians were core members in New Covenant, and it really shows in their services. Even in the middle of July, the service had a nice "College Church" feel to it.
The musical styles were quite different between these two experiences. But in both places, music worked as ministry of the Word, and at the Holy Trinity service Downtown I was reminded of a great Charles Wesley hymn text which we need to be sure to sing in the coming weeks. Now, I have to say ... we will not be singing it to the tune and arrangement used downtown. (That's another issue altogether!) But it is a potent hymn, and I am eager to have our own congregation sing it soon. (Yes, I'll say it ... to a better tune.)
Arise, my soul, arise,
shake off your guilty fears;
the bleeding Sacrifice
in my behalf appears;
before the throne my Surety stands,
my name is written on his hands.
He ever lives above,
for me to intercede,
his all-redeeming love,
his precious blood to plead;
his blood atoned for every race,
and sprinkles now the throne of grace.
Five bleeding wounds he bears,
received on Calvary;
they pour effectual prayers,
they strongly plead for me.
"Forgive him, oh forgive," they cry,
"nor let that ransomed sinner die!"
My God is reconciled;
his pardoning voice I hear;
he owns me for his child,
I can no longer fear;
with confidence I now draw nigh,
and "Father, Abba, Father!" cry.
Charles Wesley, 1742 (alt. 1961)
And now, as I type these words out, I realize why they have stuck with me so strongly over the past month. They resonate, they come from, they echo, the Romans 8 passage of our Anchor Memory program!
Our newest church plant is beginning to pick up steam. It will be in Lombard, with Pastor Jeff Brewer. Jeff is warm-hearted, dynamic, engaging ... and a real hymn lover. We can look forward to hearing, and singing, the ministry of the Word, with our friends in Lombard from this coming Easter.
By the way, in case you didn't click the link above: a rhizome is a characteristically horizontal stem of a plant, growing beneath or along the ground, from which new shoots of a plant take root and grow. Rhizomes are why it's almost impossible for us to get rid of the ribbon grass in my back yard. On the positive side, rhizomes are how certain herbs and perennial flowers keep flourishing. It is a good metaphor for a church plant, and for our own witness of the gospel.
Sing on!
11 August 2010
The well built church
I didn't set out to run a mini-series of Scandanavian hymns. But after last week's "promise" of a Danish hymn, I may as well in fact complete the summer that way!
This summer I have been teaching on the subject of "worship" to the young adult congregation. It has been a wide-ranging discussion, from Romans 12 - our lives as worship - to the Psalm headings and what they may teach us about music in worship. From "psalms, hymns and spiritual songs" to the tension between the Regulative and Hooker principles for worship. I've had a lot of fun, and I hope it has been helpful.
It is in the context of that teaching that this Danish hymn presents itself today. If you ask people to identify a "Danish hymn" - non-Danes are going to name this one. Oh, and by the way, don't be distracted by the Norwegian composer of the tune for this hymn: the political history of the Scandanavian countries is so intermingled that in this case it is hardly significant. (With apologies to Scandanavians, for whom nothing about those political histories is insignificant!) Ultimately, in Christ, even the Scandanavians are joined as one.
Built on the Rock the church doth stand,
even when steeples are falling;
crumbled have spires in every land,
bells still are chiming and calling,
calling the young and old to rest,
but above all the soul distressed,
longing for life everlasting.
Surely in temples made with hands,
God the most high is not dwelling;
high above earth his temple stands,
all earthly temples excelling.
Yet he whom heaven cannot contain
chose to abide on earth with men,
built in our bodies his temple.
We are God's house of living stones,
built for his own habitation;
he fills our hearts, his humble thrones,
granting us life and salvation;
were two or three to seek his face,
he in his midst would show his grace,
blessings upon them bestowing.
Now we may gather with our King
even in the lowliest dwelling;
praises to him we there may bring,
his wondrous mercy forth-telling.
Jesus his grace to us accords;
Spirit and life are all his words;
his truth doth hallow the temple.
This summer I have been teaching on the subject of "worship" to the young adult congregation. It has been a wide-ranging discussion, from Romans 12 - our lives as worship - to the Psalm headings and what they may teach us about music in worship. From "psalms, hymns and spiritual songs" to the tension between the Regulative and Hooker principles for worship. I've had a lot of fun, and I hope it has been helpful.
It is in the context of that teaching that this Danish hymn presents itself today. If you ask people to identify a "Danish hymn" - non-Danes are going to name this one. Oh, and by the way, don't be distracted by the Norwegian composer of the tune for this hymn: the political history of the Scandanavian countries is so intermingled that in this case it is hardly significant. (With apologies to Scandanavians, for whom nothing about those political histories is insignificant!) Ultimately, in Christ, even the Scandanavians are joined as one.
Built on the Rock the church doth stand,
even when steeples are falling;
crumbled have spires in every land,
bells still are chiming and calling,
calling the young and old to rest,
but above all the soul distressed,
longing for life everlasting.
Surely in temples made with hands,
God the most high is not dwelling;
high above earth his temple stands,
all earthly temples excelling.
Yet he whom heaven cannot contain
chose to abide on earth with men,
built in our bodies his temple.
We are God's house of living stones,
built for his own habitation;
he fills our hearts, his humble thrones,
granting us life and salvation;
were two or three to seek his face,
he in his midst would show his grace,
blessings upon them bestowing.
Now we may gather with our King
even in the lowliest dwelling;
praises to him we there may bring,
his wondrous mercy forth-telling.
Jesus his grace to us accords;
Spirit and life are all his words;
his truth doth hallow the temple.
Nicolai F. S. Grundtvig (1837);
trans. Carl Doving (1909); adapt. Fred C. M. Hansen (1927)
Pastor Grundtvig was a contemporary of the Danish Christian philosopher, Soren Kierkegaard, who told the story of a highly placed clergyman, preaching to a wealthy audience in the state church. "In the splendid cathedral, the high, well-born, highly honored, and worthy Geheime-General-Ober-Hof-Preacher [note from CK: here the author is dripping with sarcasm], the chosen darling of the important people, steps before a select circle of the select, and movingly sermonizes on a text chosen by himself, namely, 'God has chosen the lowly and despised of the earth'—and no one laughs." (quoted in Joachim Garff's biography of Kierkegaard) Today's hymn is in fact the appropriate "sermon hymn" for that pretentious preacher's text.
In that spirit, in the true temple,
Sing on!
04 August 2010
The Earth Adorned
At the risk of being mistaken as a Scandanavian (a risk I'm happy to take, by the way), this week's hymn again comes from the lands to the north. This time from Sweden (just to be fair). Denmark may well be next, but I'm not sure I have one from Finland or Lapland!
But first, these words from Warren Wiersbe: "In my early years as a Christian, I was often upset when I attended a service where 'creation hymns' were sung. 'The important thing is the cross!' I would argue. 'Let the liberals sing about the birds and flowers!' How wrong I was! I did not realize then as I do now that the God of creation and the God of salvation are the same God, and that these must not be divorced from each other." (Real Worship, p. 53. Pastor Wiersbe's book on worship explores the topic through the four songs in the Revelation. I am glad to see it is still in print!)
I have found this insight very helpful as a worship planner. It has reconciled me to the inner stanzas of "Fairest Lord Jesus," for example. (Though to be complete, that hymn requires its usually-omitted 4th stanza.) It has also helped me look at and consider the entire hymn text of "creation hymns." Do they end with creation itself, or point to the Creator? Of course, that is the crux of the matter (pun intended).
And so, to today's hymn, "The Earth Adorned (Psalm of Summer)" by Waldemar Ahlen.
The earth adorned in verdant robe
sends praises upward surging,
while soft winds breathe on fragrant flowers
from winter now emerging.
The sunshine bright gives warmth and light
to budding blossoms tender,
proclaiming summer splendor.
From out the wood, the birds now sing
and each its song now raises,
to join with all the universe
in voicing thankful praises.
With hope and joy their songs employ
a rapturous exultation
in praise of God's creation.
O God, amid these joys of life,
creation's glory beaming,
grant us the grace to keep your word
and live in love redeeming.
All flesh is grass, the flowers fade,
and time is fleeting ever;
God's word remains forever.
Note how the text admires and respects the natural order. And how it turns our admiraion to "a rapturous exultation in praise of God's creation" - that is, from the creation to its Creator. And then in a very biblical turn, and without undoing this proper wonder in the face of natural beauty, it points us to what is truly everlasting. All flesh is grass, the flowers fade, time is fleeting - but the word of our God abides forever. Here is a proper and deep Christian "creation hymn." And an apt one for this time of year!
Sing on!
But first, these words from Warren Wiersbe: "In my early years as a Christian, I was often upset when I attended a service where 'creation hymns' were sung. 'The important thing is the cross!' I would argue. 'Let the liberals sing about the birds and flowers!' How wrong I was! I did not realize then as I do now that the God of creation and the God of salvation are the same God, and that these must not be divorced from each other." (Real Worship, p. 53. Pastor Wiersbe's book on worship explores the topic through the four songs in the Revelation. I am glad to see it is still in print!)
I have found this insight very helpful as a worship planner. It has reconciled me to the inner stanzas of "Fairest Lord Jesus," for example. (Though to be complete, that hymn requires its usually-omitted 4th stanza.) It has also helped me look at and consider the entire hymn text of "creation hymns." Do they end with creation itself, or point to the Creator? Of course, that is the crux of the matter (pun intended).
And so, to today's hymn, "The Earth Adorned (Psalm of Summer)" by Waldemar Ahlen.
The earth adorned in verdant robe
sends praises upward surging,
while soft winds breathe on fragrant flowers
from winter now emerging.
The sunshine bright gives warmth and light
to budding blossoms tender,
proclaiming summer splendor.
From out the wood, the birds now sing
and each its song now raises,
to join with all the universe
in voicing thankful praises.
With hope and joy their songs employ
a rapturous exultation
in praise of God's creation.
O God, amid these joys of life,
creation's glory beaming,
grant us the grace to keep your word
and live in love redeeming.
All flesh is grass, the flowers fade,
and time is fleeting ever;
God's word remains forever.
Waldeman Ahlen (trans. Carolyn and Kenneth Jennings)
(c) 1934/1974 Walton Music Corporation
Sing on!
21 July 2010
Gathered
Written in 1929 by Norwegian Svein Ellingsen, the following hymn was provided with a new tune by Norwegian composer Egil Hovland in 1988, revised in 1993 anticipating the 1994 Winter Olympics in Oslo and given the tune name OLYMPIC HYMN.
It is an example of a hymn which, in the absence of any explicit reference to Jesus, can be put to work for a variety of purposes. As you read the text, you might for example see how apt an expression it could be for the winter games!
But it is a deeply Christian hymn, used in the church now for several generations. And for Christians who sing it, there is much to embrace about its message. We have used it here at College Church, in missions conferences. Why do I post it today? Well, it happens to be the next hymn up in my review for a project I'm working on. Hey, it works for me ...
Gathered in God's presence in fellowship and gladness,
let us sing our praises and pray for all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered in God's stillness, away from strife and unrest,
we may share the brightness of hope with all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered at God's altar and in the Spirit's presence
we may share the calling to go to all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered 'round God's calling we shall, as faithful servants,
bear the flame now kindled as light to all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
It is an example of a hymn which, in the absence of any explicit reference to Jesus, can be put to work for a variety of purposes. As you read the text, you might for example see how apt an expression it could be for the winter games!
But it is a deeply Christian hymn, used in the church now for several generations. And for Christians who sing it, there is much to embrace about its message. We have used it here at College Church, in missions conferences. Why do I post it today? Well, it happens to be the next hymn up in my review for a project I'm working on. Hey, it works for me ...
Gathered in God's presence in fellowship and gladness,
let us sing our praises and pray for all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered in God's stillness, away from strife and unrest,
we may share the brightness of hope with all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered at God's altar and in the Spirit's presence
we may share the calling to go to all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered 'round God's calling we shall, as faithful servants,
bear the flame now kindled as light to all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Svein Ellingsen (1929), trans. Hedda Durnbaugh
In his book, Let the Nations Be Glad, John Piper says "Missions exists because worship does not." That is to say, God is seeking worshipers, and the circle of true worshipers grows as the Gospel is spread through missions and evangelism.
Many are the stories of the missionary call coming in the context of worship. This is one thrust of today's hymn. But our worship itself has, and is meant to have, an evangelistic impact. So, St. Paul, speaking of worship done decently and in order, in the context of the vibrant sharing of the gifts of the Spirit, says: if ... an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you. (1 Cor. 14:24-25)
For the sake of the Gospel and the conversion of those who worship with us,
Sing on!
23 June 2010
Gracious Spirit
Gracious Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would gracious be;
and with words that help and heal
would thy life in mine reveal;
and with actions bold and meek
would for Christ my Savior speak.
Truthful Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would truthful be;
and with wisdom kind and clear
let thy life in mine appear;
and with actions brotherly
speak my Lord's sincerity.
Mighty Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would mighty be;
mighty so as to prevail
where unaided man must fail;
ever by a mighty hope
pressing on and bearing up.
Holy Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would holy be;
separate from sin, I would
choose and cherish all things good,
and whatever I can be,
give to him who gave me thee!
The Spirit bears witness with our Spirit, that we are children of God ...
Sing on!
I myself would gracious be;
and with words that help and heal
would thy life in mine reveal;
and with actions bold and meek
would for Christ my Savior speak.
Truthful Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would truthful be;
and with wisdom kind and clear
let thy life in mine appear;
and with actions brotherly
speak my Lord's sincerity.
Mighty Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would mighty be;
mighty so as to prevail
where unaided man must fail;
ever by a mighty hope
pressing on and bearing up.
Holy Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would holy be;
separate from sin, I would
choose and cherish all things good,
and whatever I can be,
give to him who gave me thee!
Thomas T. Lynch (1855)
The Spirit bears witness with our Spirit, that we are children of God ...
Sing on!
16 June 2010
The Father of fearless freedmen
This week's Anchor memory verse (see the Prayer Column in the sidebar) suggested this hymn:
Children of the heavenly King,
as we journey let us sing;
sing our Savior's worthy praise,
glorious in his works and ways.
We are traveling home to God
in the way our fathers trod;
they are happy now, and we
soon their happiness shall see.
Fear not, brethren, joyful stand
on the borders of our land;
Jesus Christ, our Father's Son,
bids us undismayed go on.
Lord, obediently we'll go,
gladly leaving all below;
only thou our Leader be,
and we still will follow thee.
Children of the heavenly King,
as we journey let us sing;
sing our Savior's worthy praise,
glorious in his works and ways.
We are traveling home to God
in the way our fathers trod;
they are happy now, and we
soon their happiness shall see.
Fear not, brethren, joyful stand
on the borders of our land;
Jesus Christ, our Father's Son,
bids us undismayed go on.
Lord, obediently we'll go,
gladly leaving all below;
only thou our Leader be,
and we still will follow thee.
John Cennick (1742)
Sing on!
09 June 2010
Summertime
With strains of George Gershwin's famous aria in my head, I look at the summer weeks ahead and wonder: For how many of us will "the livin' be easy"? It seems that we manage to fill up our lives with activities regardless of the season. And though those activities are a change from the "normal," they may not be a chage of pace.
With the Chancel Choir finally joining the ranks of College Church musical groups now on summer hiatus, I find that a significant part of my weekly calendar is freed up for other important projects. Will I approach them with at least the same purposefulness and joy that I use for choir rehearsals during the school year? How will this change of focus affect the pace of my work week?
More importantly, how will the change from normal, and the potential change of pace, prove useful to the church and her musicians? Will this summer matter when things pick back up at the beginning of the school year? Will I be better equipped, refreshed for fresh starts, and raring to go in late August? Hey, good questions! Would you pray about those things, for me and for yourselves as well?
I normally take summers off from writing this column in "Knowing the Score," but try to keep musicians informed about events and prayer needs via weekly email. This summer I want to briefly update this space weekly, along with the Prayer Column. I won't be writing while on vacation. And I won't go very "deep" in this column! But because our work does not stop for the summer, I'll keep checking up on it on Wednesdays.
Sing on!
With the Chancel Choir finally joining the ranks of College Church musical groups now on summer hiatus, I find that a significant part of my weekly calendar is freed up for other important projects. Will I approach them with at least the same purposefulness and joy that I use for choir rehearsals during the school year? How will this change of focus affect the pace of my work week?
More importantly, how will the change from normal, and the potential change of pace, prove useful to the church and her musicians? Will this summer matter when things pick back up at the beginning of the school year? Will I be better equipped, refreshed for fresh starts, and raring to go in late August? Hey, good questions! Would you pray about those things, for me and for yourselves as well?
I normally take summers off from writing this column in "Knowing the Score," but try to keep musicians informed about events and prayer needs via weekly email. This summer I want to briefly update this space weekly, along with the Prayer Column. I won't be writing while on vacation. And I won't go very "deep" in this column! But because our work does not stop for the summer, I'll keep checking up on it on Wednesdays.
Sing on!
02 June 2010
Cross Training
It was almost exactly a year ago that I first considered running for the STARS. I have shown up, hung around, and cheered for runners every year since this great event started. Two years ago, I walked the course. One year ago I decided in early June to give myself a week to see if I could run 5 kilometers. And when the day came - rain and all - I showed up and participated in my first organized running event.
I fancy myself more of a cyclist. I have always insisted that when runners get old, they become cyclists, so why not just cut out the running thing altogether? There was no reason why, at age 53, I should all of a sudden put on a pair of running shoes and try this thing out. But it was for a good cause, and there's nothing quite like doing something with some 300+ enthusiasts, of all abilities and descriptions.
I was pleased by my time in last year's Run for the STARS. But I was surprised by the comments of supposedly knowledgeable people who thought it was a really good time, and who seemed to question that it really was my first 5k race. Hmm ... maybe I should be running?
As some of you know, that question lingered, niggled, and finally got under my skin. And about 5 weeks ago I ran my first marathon. So, what happened to my cycling? Well, I like to say "cycling is my love language" - it's what I most prefer for physical exercise. During the winter weeks of 2010, training for a spring marathon, cycling became the other sport. Now that the marathon is behind me, and I still enjoy running, cylcing is the main event, and running is the other.
In the world of exercise and sport, this alternating of activities is called "cross training." An athlete (and no, I do not put myself in that category!) trains hard at her sport, and on off days does a different activity that will still keep her fit but give her a rest of sorts. A change-up. So, during the cylcing months, running has now become my "cross training."
I know many musicians reading this column are engaging in ministry "cross training" this summer. You are giving time in a nursery, with a children's Sunday School class, hosting a Back Yard Bible Club, or helping out in some other area of ministry. When choirs and ensembles pick back up in the fall, you will return to your main event.
But we also see what we do as "cross training" in a very different way. Our work together in ministry is a very real participation in taking up the cross and following Jesus. It involves sacrifice, dying to ourselves, and living for others. It brings us out on cold winter nights and snowy Sunday mornings; it keeps us in stuffy rehearsal conditions and in warm robes or suits. It drives us to prayer and to mutual dependence on others with whom we serve. And ultimately - I pray, purposefully - it is all to the end that the Cross of Jesus would be displayed, preached, responded to, and lived under.
Sing on!
I fancy myself more of a cyclist. I have always insisted that when runners get old, they become cyclists, so why not just cut out the running thing altogether? There was no reason why, at age 53, I should all of a sudden put on a pair of running shoes and try this thing out. But it was for a good cause, and there's nothing quite like doing something with some 300+ enthusiasts, of all abilities and descriptions.
I was pleased by my time in last year's Run for the STARS. But I was surprised by the comments of supposedly knowledgeable people who thought it was a really good time, and who seemed to question that it really was my first 5k race. Hmm ... maybe I should be running?
As some of you know, that question lingered, niggled, and finally got under my skin. And about 5 weeks ago I ran my first marathon. So, what happened to my cycling? Well, I like to say "cycling is my love language" - it's what I most prefer for physical exercise. During the winter weeks of 2010, training for a spring marathon, cycling became the other sport. Now that the marathon is behind me, and I still enjoy running, cylcing is the main event, and running is the other.
In the world of exercise and sport, this alternating of activities is called "cross training." An athlete (and no, I do not put myself in that category!) trains hard at her sport, and on off days does a different activity that will still keep her fit but give her a rest of sorts. A change-up. So, during the cylcing months, running has now become my "cross training."
I know many musicians reading this column are engaging in ministry "cross training" this summer. You are giving time in a nursery, with a children's Sunday School class, hosting a Back Yard Bible Club, or helping out in some other area of ministry. When choirs and ensembles pick back up in the fall, you will return to your main event.
But we also see what we do as "cross training" in a very different way. Our work together in ministry is a very real participation in taking up the cross and following Jesus. It involves sacrifice, dying to ourselves, and living for others. It brings us out on cold winter nights and snowy Sunday mornings; it keeps us in stuffy rehearsal conditions and in warm robes or suits. It drives us to prayer and to mutual dependence on others with whom we serve. And ultimately - I pray, purposefully - it is all to the end that the Cross of Jesus would be displayed, preached, responded to, and lived under.
Sing on!
26 May 2010
Holy Spirit, God and Lord
I was on staff retreat last week, and did not get to Knowing the Score. My intent had been to close Ascension with a hymn bridging to Pentecost:
All authority and power, every status and domain,
now belongs to him who suffered our redemption to obtain;
angels, demons, kings and rulers, over all shall Jesus reign!
All authority and power, every status and domain,
now belongs to him who suffered our redemption to obtain;
angels, demons, kings and rulers, over all shall Jesus reign!
Christopher Idle, 1971
(c) 1973 Hope Publishing Co.
As you see, it is a hymn based on Jesus' final words to his disciples, as he departed from their sight and told them to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit.
All the time he will be with us, always, to the end of days;
with his own believing people who keep steadfast in his ways;
God the Father, Son and Spirit, bless us, and to God be praise!
Christopher Idle
Today's hymn is for Pentecost, marking the arrival of the Spirit ten days after the Ascension, fifty days after the Resurrection. Some mark the sending of the Spirit as the birthday of the Church. All recognize it as the inauguration of the promises of the prophets, as noted in Peter's Pentecost sermon and referenced in the epistles. From henceforth God's Law is written on the hearts of his people. So, as we have been memorizing: "the righteous requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit." (Romans 8:4)
Come, Holy Spirit, God and Lord!
Be all thy graces now outpoured
on each believer's mind and heart;
thy fervent love to us impart.
Lord, by the brightness of thy light,
thou in the faith dost all unite
from every land and every tongue;
this to thy praise, O Lord, be sung.
Thou holy light, our guide divine,
Oh, cause the Word of life to shine!
teach us to know our God aright
and call him Father with delight.
From every error keep us free;
let none but Christ our master be
that we in living faith abide,
in him with all our might confide.
Thou holy fire, our comfort true,
grant us the will thy work to do
and in thy service to abide;
let trials turn us not aside.
Lord, by thy power prepare each heart
and to our weakness strength impart
that bravely here we may contend,
through life and death to thee ascend.
Martin Luther, 1524
trans. Catherine Winkworth, 1855 (alt.)
The scriptures attest - the Holy Spirit is God, he is a member of the Holy Trinity. To him, let such a prayer as this be made: that he would guide us into all truth, through Jesus; and equip us to walk in that truth and persevere to the end.
Pastor Luther knew a thing or two about the Holy Spirit. And so too, let us follow his example and depend on the Spirit, as we
Sing on!
12 May 2010
Hail the Day!
The presentation of a hymn by Charles Wesley almost always begs explanation. This most prolific of English hymn writers (over 6,000 known hymns and poems) is by default also the most edited of our hymn writers. The beloved "O for a thousand tongues to sing" is a case in point. In fact, it is the case that most often makes the point: our hymnal's 5 stanzas are selected from the 17 that Wesley published, and even at that the stanzas we know as "O for a thousand tongues" do not appear in that order in the original poem.
No, Charles Wesley could be the chief witness against hymnal editors. "Look what they've done to my song!" And not just the order of stanzas, but over time and in many ways for many reasons, his words have been changed, up-dated, put through theological filters, and yet presented as his own. (Sometimes, but not always, with the subtle acknowledgement, alt.) Still, for those of us on the other side of these decisions, the clarity and simplicity and force of his texts still ring through and ring true. The disciplined biblicism and robust theology and clear thinking and passionate experience continue to stir our devotion and our praise.
So, when we look at Charles Wesley's Ascension Hymn (written as such) it is only fair to acknowledge that what we sing and what he wrote do not always neatly line up. For one thing, the "Alleluias" are editorial tropes, perhaps added to allow the core text to work with a given tune, specifically the Welsh tune LLANFAIR. (Warning: only click the link to the tune if you can stand cheesy electronic piano/organ sounds!)
Given its presence in Hymns for the Living Church, I will begin the hymn with Alleluias. In the interest of space, and for the sake of seeing the text more or less as Wesley intended, will then continue without them. I rather like the Alleuluias, as noted earlier because they are the Easter acclamation, and certainly are fitting for the occasion of Jesus' ascension to the right hand of the Father. Indeed, it is on the basis of that great work on our behalf that we have the certain faith to say, "alleluia - praise the Lord!"
Hail the day that sees him rise, Alleluia!
To his throne above the skies; Alleluia!
Christ, the Lamb for sinners given, Alleluia!
Enters now the highest heaven, Alleluia!
There for him high triumph waits;
lift your heads, eternal gates.
He has conquered death and sin;
take the King of glory in.
See, he lifts his hands above!
See, he shows the prints of love!
Hark! His gracious lips bestow
blessings on his church below.
Lord, beyond our mortal sight,
raise our hearts to reach thy height;
there thy face unclouded see,
find our heaven of heavens in thee!
No, Charles Wesley could be the chief witness against hymnal editors. "Look what they've done to my song!" And not just the order of stanzas, but over time and in many ways for many reasons, his words have been changed, up-dated, put through theological filters, and yet presented as his own. (Sometimes, but not always, with the subtle acknowledgement, alt.) Still, for those of us on the other side of these decisions, the clarity and simplicity and force of his texts still ring through and ring true. The disciplined biblicism and robust theology and clear thinking and passionate experience continue to stir our devotion and our praise.
So, when we look at Charles Wesley's Ascension Hymn (written as such) it is only fair to acknowledge that what we sing and what he wrote do not always neatly line up. For one thing, the "Alleluias" are editorial tropes, perhaps added to allow the core text to work with a given tune, specifically the Welsh tune LLANFAIR. (Warning: only click the link to the tune if you can stand cheesy electronic piano/organ sounds!)
Given its presence in Hymns for the Living Church, I will begin the hymn with Alleluias. In the interest of space, and for the sake of seeing the text more or less as Wesley intended, will then continue without them. I rather like the Alleuluias, as noted earlier because they are the Easter acclamation, and certainly are fitting for the occasion of Jesus' ascension to the right hand of the Father. Indeed, it is on the basis of that great work on our behalf that we have the certain faith to say, "alleluia - praise the Lord!"
Hail the day that sees him rise, Alleluia!
To his throne above the skies; Alleluia!
Christ, the Lamb for sinners given, Alleluia!
Enters now the highest heaven, Alleluia!
There for him high triumph waits;
lift your heads, eternal gates.
He has conquered death and sin;
take the King of glory in.
See, he lifts his hands above!
See, he shows the prints of love!
Hark! His gracious lips bestow
blessings on his church below.
Lord, beyond our mortal sight,
raise our hearts to reach thy height;
there thy face unclouded see,
find our heaven of heavens in thee!
Charles Wesley (1739)
Tomorrow, May 13, is the 40th day following Resurrection Sunday: Ascension Day. Rejoice!
Sing on!
04 May 2010
Sound the note of praise above
Continuing our Ascension hymns, this week's is an oldie that I am disappointed to say we do not sing at College Church. To my discredit, I must admit. Let us begin the restoration process by setting out this marvelous text by Thomas Kelly.
Hark! ten thousand harps and voices
sound the note of praise above;
Jesus reigns and heaven rejoices,
Jesus reigns, the God of love.
See, he sits on yonder throne:
Jesus rules the world alone.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Sing how Jesus came from heaven,
how he bore the cross below,
how all power to him is given,
how he reigns in glory now.
'Tis a great and endless theme -
Oh, 'tis sweet to sing of him.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Jesus, hail! Thy glory brightens
all above and gives it worth;
Lord of life, thy smile enlightens,
cheers and charms thy saints on earth.
When we think of love like thine,
Lord, we own it love divine.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
King of glory, reign forever!
Thine an everlasting crown.
Nothing from thy love shall sever
those whom thou hast made thine own:
Happy objects of thy grace,
destined to behold thy face.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Savior, hasten thine appearing!
Bring, oh bring the glorious day,
when, the awful summons hearing,
heaven and earth shall pass away.
Then with golden harps we'll sing,
"Glory, glory to our King!"
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Oh, this day is important in the redemption history, it is one of the mighty acts of God for his people. At the culmination of Jesus' teaching ministry, post-resurrection, we find Jesus highly exalted, understand that he takes his throne, have confidence in his rule, and rest in his promised return.
"Glory, glory, to our King!"
Sing on!
Hark! ten thousand harps and voices
sound the note of praise above;
Jesus reigns and heaven rejoices,
Jesus reigns, the God of love.
See, he sits on yonder throne:
Jesus rules the world alone.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Sing how Jesus came from heaven,
how he bore the cross below,
how all power to him is given,
how he reigns in glory now.
'Tis a great and endless theme -
Oh, 'tis sweet to sing of him.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Jesus, hail! Thy glory brightens
all above and gives it worth;
Lord of life, thy smile enlightens,
cheers and charms thy saints on earth.
When we think of love like thine,
Lord, we own it love divine.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
King of glory, reign forever!
Thine an everlasting crown.
Nothing from thy love shall sever
those whom thou hast made thine own:
Happy objects of thy grace,
destined to behold thy face.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Savior, hasten thine appearing!
Bring, oh bring the glorious day,
when, the awful summons hearing,
heaven and earth shall pass away.
Then with golden harps we'll sing,
"Glory, glory to our King!"
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.
Thomas Kelly (1806)
tune in Hymns for the Living Church: HARWELL (Lowell Mason, 1840)
A common, and completely biblically based, theme of Ascension hymns is the assurance of Jesus' return. In fact, as a logical matter, Jesus can not return to us from heaven if he has not ascended to heaven in the first place. "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also." (John 14:3) And the first word of the angels to the disciples, watching Jesus taken up: "Why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven." (Acts 1:11)
Oh, this day is important in the redemption history, it is one of the mighty acts of God for his people. At the culmination of Jesus' teaching ministry, post-resurrection, we find Jesus highly exalted, understand that he takes his throne, have confidence in his rule, and rest in his promised return.
"Glory, glory, to our King!"
Sing on!
28 April 2010
Again I say, Rejoice!
Rejoice, the Lord is King:
Your Lord and King adore!
Rejoice, give thanks, and sing,
and triumph evermore:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Jesus the Savior reigns,
the God of truth and love;
when he had purged our stains
he took his seat above:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
His kingdom cannot fail,
he rules o'er earth and heaven;
the keys of death and hell
are to our Jesus given:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
He sits at God's right hand,
till all his foes submit,
and bow to his command,
and fall beneath his feet:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in glorious hope!
Our Lord the Judge shall come, [Jesus the Judge shall come]
and take his servants up
to their eternal home.
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Today's stanza 4 is not included in many new hymnals. But we must see and sing it. This is the work of Jesus now - and also it clarifies the final stanza's indentification of Jesus as Judge. Today I sat in on a mock ordination council. When the candidate was asked "where is Jesus now?" he wisely responded, "relative to his humanity, he is in heaven; relative to his divinity, he is omnipresent." Rejoice!
Your Lord and King adore!
Rejoice, give thanks, and sing,
and triumph evermore:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Jesus the Savior reigns,
the God of truth and love;
when he had purged our stains
he took his seat above:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
His kingdom cannot fail,
he rules o'er earth and heaven;
the keys of death and hell
are to our Jesus given:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
He sits at God's right hand,
till all his foes submit,
and bow to his command,
and fall beneath his feet:
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in glorious hope!
Our Lord the Judge shall come, [Jesus the Judge shall come]
and take his servants up
to their eternal home.
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Charles Wesley, 1746
Here is a hymn that we usually program as general praise. It is in fact a distinctly Ascension hymn, as you will see in context of this season's columns in Knowing the Score. It begins with acknowledging Jesus as King, and in stanza 2 takes us to and through the cross. This is a master of poetic theology; a gift that Wesley shares with few other hymn writers. Jesus "purged our stains" then "took his seat above." There is a world of understanding there, for those who know the scriptures and who regularly sing the gospel. All the Passion in one brief phrase, and the kenosis hymn (Philippians 2) in another: he purged our stains and took his seat above. Rejoice!
To what end? That every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord! So we, the Church, his Body, now live in that confession in confidence: He holds the keys to this kingdom which cannot fail. He rules. Rejoice!
Today's stanza 4 is not included in many new hymnals. But we must see and sing it. This is the work of Jesus now - and also it clarifies the final stanza's indentification of Jesus as Judge. Today I sat in on a mock ordination council. When the candidate was asked "where is Jesus now?" he wisely responded, "relative to his humanity, he is in heaven; relative to his divinity, he is omnipresent." Rejoice!
The destination of Jesus, in the clouds from the mount, was not to a passive position in a restful heaven, but to the next phase of his work. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high ... (Heb. 1:3) Now the point of what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the holy places. (Heb. 8:1) We read elsewhere "he always lives to intercede for us." Rejoice!
And this is our hope. It is the source of hope for the apostles and the "more than 500" who saw Jesus between his resurrection and his ascension. It is the source of hope for all those who "having not seen him, yet love him." He is our Lord, the Judge, and he is coming again for his servants. He has gone to prepare a place for us, so that where he is we may be also. Rejoice!
And here is how Wesley finished this hymn - not what we find in our hymnals. Sing it to the last 2 lines (the refrain) of the hymn:
We soon shall hear th'archangel's voice;
the trump of God shall sound, rejoice!
Waiting, rejoicing,
Sing on!
21 April 2010
And that he appeared
For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time ... Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles.
Matters of importance, in accordance with the Scriptures, attested to by many (when Paul wrote, many witnesses were still living). And from Paul's summary (not to mention the gospel accounts) we get the strong impression that these appearances were over time, and in various places. It is this work of Jesus, between Resurrection and Ascension, with which "Easter" is concerned. Surprisingly few hymns deal with these days - the focus jumps from Resurrection surprise and joy, to Ascension glory and awe. What about the intervening days? That looks like fertile ground for new hymn-writers.
And doubtless, some informed readers will now send me plenty of examples of what I am not finding! (The excellent Emmaus Road anthem, "Slow Down," by local composer Ed Childs, seems to fit in here. Thanks, Ed!)
In keeping then with the mainstream either/or of the season, I continue with some Ascension hymns for our considertion:
A hymn of glory let us sing!
New hymns throughout the world shall ring:
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Christ, by a road before untrod,
ascends unto the throne of God.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
upon the Mount of Olives stand,
and, with his faithful followers see
their Lord ascend in majesty.
O Lord, our homeward pathway bend
that our unwearied hearts ascend,
where, seated on your Father's throne,
you reign as King of kings alone.
O risen Christ, ascended Lord,
all praise to you let earth accord:
You are, while endless ages run,
with Father and with Spirit one.
The "Alleluias" have been added to Bede's rather more straight-forward text. I like it, not only because it allows us to use a beloved tune, but also becasue it distinctly makes the seasonal connections. "Alleluia" is the expression of the church at Easter in particlar.
So, as we wait, and walk, and learn from Jesus, with Alleluias let us
Sing on!
(1 Corinthians 15:3-7)
Matters of importance, in accordance with the Scriptures, attested to by many (when Paul wrote, many witnesses were still living). And from Paul's summary (not to mention the gospel accounts) we get the strong impression that these appearances were over time, and in various places. It is this work of Jesus, between Resurrection and Ascension, with which "Easter" is concerned. Surprisingly few hymns deal with these days - the focus jumps from Resurrection surprise and joy, to Ascension glory and awe. What about the intervening days? That looks like fertile ground for new hymn-writers.
And doubtless, some informed readers will now send me plenty of examples of what I am not finding! (The excellent Emmaus Road anthem, "Slow Down," by local composer Ed Childs, seems to fit in here. Thanks, Ed!)
In keeping then with the mainstream either/or of the season, I continue with some Ascension hymns for our considertion:
A hymn of glory let us sing!
New hymns throughout the world shall ring:
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Christ, by a road before untrod,
ascends unto the throne of God.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
(Yes, the tune here is lasst uns erfreuen.
I provide the remainder of the hymn without the Alleluia tropes.)
The holy apostolic band I provide the remainder of the hymn without the Alleluia tropes.)
upon the Mount of Olives stand,
and, with his faithful followers see
their Lord ascend in majesty.
O Lord, our homeward pathway bend
that our unwearied hearts ascend,
where, seated on your Father's throne,
you reign as King of kings alone.
O risen Christ, ascended Lord,
all praise to you let earth accord:
You are, while endless ages run,
with Father and with Spirit one.
The Venerable Bede (8th cent.), tr. Lutheran Book of Worship, 1978
(c) Augsburg Publishing House
The "Alleluias" have been added to Bede's rather more straight-forward text. I like it, not only because it allows us to use a beloved tune, but also becasue it distinctly makes the seasonal connections. "Alleluia" is the expression of the church at Easter in particlar.
So, as we wait, and walk, and learn from Jesus, with Alleluias let us
Sing on!
14 April 2010
Another Forty Days
Easter proper - Resurrection Sunday - is the hinge between two 40-day periods. Before Easter, the Church at large observes Lent: for the Church, a period of preparation. After Easter, the Easter season which culminates on day 40, with the Ascension: for the disciples, a period of preparation.
Lent is a liturgical artifice. That is, an invention of the church, thoughtfully rooted in biblical, doctrinal, and devotional practices. But it does not "correspond" to a specific biblical historical "event." (None of which rules it out as a sound practice for individuals or churches. But also, which does make it entirely optional as Christian practice.)
The Ascension, on the other hand, is a vital component of biblical historical redemption history! And we know the day it happened, relative to Easter (the Passover). For this reason, the Reformers kept it on their calendars, while many of the old holy days were jettisoned. It was considered one of the "evangelical feasts" - a day to celebrate the Gospel.
Ascension ends a biblical forty day period, during which Jesus appeared to his disciples, and taught them. In this way, it is a mirror of how Lent is postured. The 40-day walk to the cross is a time of teaching in and through suffering. The 40-days between Resurrection and Ascension is a time of teaching out of victory. Then, the only thing left for the disciples - indeed, for the Church - was the sending of the promised Holy Spirit. But let's not get ahead of ourselves!
So, just as we did during Lent, I want to highlight some hymns of these forty days. Hymns that highlight Jesus the Teacher, Jesus in all the Scriptures, and Jesus the Ascended Victor and High Priest who ever lives to intercede for us. We begin with a hymn by Martin Luther, which is the basis of Bach cantata 4, the Easter cantata "Christ lag in Todesbanden" - Christ lay in death's bonds.
Christ Jesus lay in death's strong bands
for our offenses given;
but now at God's right hand he stands
and brings us life from heaven:
Wherefore let us joyful be,
and sing to God right thankfully
loud songs of Alleluia!
Alleluia!
It was a strange and dreadful strife
when life and death contended;
the victory remained with life,
the reign of death was ended:
Stripped of power, no more he reigns,
an empty form alone remains;
his sting is lost forever.
Alleluia!
So let us keep the festival
whereto the Lord invites us;
Christ is himself the joy of all,
the sun that warms and lights us;
by his grace he doth impart
eternal sunshine to the heart;
the night of sin is ended.
Alleluia!
Then let us feast this Easter day
on the true bread of heaven.
The word of grace has purged away
the old and wicked leaven;
Christ alone our souls will feed,
he is our meat and drink indeed,
faith lives upon no other.
Alleluia!
The forty days began with Jesus appearing to his closest disciples on the day of Resurrection. And from the beginning, as with those on the Emmaus road, he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures about himself. That surely began with "and rose on the third day, in accordance with the Scriptures." Which is where our Easter/Ascension worship rests as well.
Sing on!
Lent is a liturgical artifice. That is, an invention of the church, thoughtfully rooted in biblical, doctrinal, and devotional practices. But it does not "correspond" to a specific biblical historical "event." (None of which rules it out as a sound practice for individuals or churches. But also, which does make it entirely optional as Christian practice.)
The Ascension, on the other hand, is a vital component of biblical historical redemption history! And we know the day it happened, relative to Easter (the Passover). For this reason, the Reformers kept it on their calendars, while many of the old holy days were jettisoned. It was considered one of the "evangelical feasts" - a day to celebrate the Gospel.
Ascension ends a biblical forty day period, during which Jesus appeared to his disciples, and taught them. In this way, it is a mirror of how Lent is postured. The 40-day walk to the cross is a time of teaching in and through suffering. The 40-days between Resurrection and Ascension is a time of teaching out of victory. Then, the only thing left for the disciples - indeed, for the Church - was the sending of the promised Holy Spirit. But let's not get ahead of ourselves!
So, just as we did during Lent, I want to highlight some hymns of these forty days. Hymns that highlight Jesus the Teacher, Jesus in all the Scriptures, and Jesus the Ascended Victor and High Priest who ever lives to intercede for us. We begin with a hymn by Martin Luther, which is the basis of Bach cantata 4, the Easter cantata "Christ lag in Todesbanden" - Christ lay in death's bonds.
Christ Jesus lay in death's strong bands
for our offenses given;
but now at God's right hand he stands
and brings us life from heaven:
Wherefore let us joyful be,
and sing to God right thankfully
loud songs of Alleluia!
Alleluia!
It was a strange and dreadful strife
when life and death contended;
the victory remained with life,
the reign of death was ended:
Stripped of power, no more he reigns,
an empty form alone remains;
his sting is lost forever.
Alleluia!
So let us keep the festival
whereto the Lord invites us;
Christ is himself the joy of all,
the sun that warms and lights us;
by his grace he doth impart
eternal sunshine to the heart;
the night of sin is ended.
Alleluia!
Then let us feast this Easter day
on the true bread of heaven.
The word of grace has purged away
the old and wicked leaven;
Christ alone our souls will feed,
he is our meat and drink indeed,
faith lives upon no other.
Alleluia!
The forty days began with Jesus appearing to his closest disciples on the day of Resurrection. And from the beginning, as with those on the Emmaus road, he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures about himself. That surely began with "and rose on the third day, in accordance with the Scriptures." Which is where our Easter/Ascension worship rests as well.
Sing on!
07 April 2010
Quasimodo
It is no surprise to most of you, that I like to track the historic church year. I guess I am an amateur liturgist; a "closet high churchman." Still, I rarely get into the arcane aspects of the church calendar. Round about this time, I generally remind readers of Knowing the Score that Easter is not a day, but a season, which begins on Resurrection Sunday and ends at Pentecost. We are fond of saying that every Sunday is a reminder of the resurrection. But when we look at the biblical historical facts, we track a period of actual days that we call "Easter." These are the days from the Resurrection until Jesus' ascension into heaven (40 days later), and then the arrival of the promised Holy Spirit at Pentecost (10 days later, or 50 days after Easter).
In the more ancient and developed church calendars, each of the Sundays following Easter have a special name. (No, I don't know them all; but I can find them quickly.) These names come from the scripture that is featured in that day's reading, and bear the Latin form of that reading. Which is why the Sunday immediately following Easter can go by the rather mundane "Second Sunday of Easter" or ... Quasimodo.
Most of us know the word from the Victor Hugo novel. (Well, probably actually not from the novel itself, but from one or another of its film versions!) The Hunchback of Notre Dame was named "Quasimodo" by the priest who raised him, because he was found abandoned, on the Sunday following Easter, Quasimodo.
Quasimodo elides the first two words of the Latin scripture: Quasi modo geniti infantes, "Like newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that by it you may grow up to salvation - if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good." (1 Peter 2:2-3) That scripture continues: "As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house ..."
Well, I am thinking of these things as the choir will be preparing one of my favorite Easter hymn/anthems. We don't intentionally prolong Easter in our services (except that, as noted above, we see every Sunday as a tribute to the resurrection). But I always think we must come back on Quasimodo prepared to sing more Easter-specifically! And it is, after all, also called "the Octave of Easter" - that is, the 8th day of the season. There's your musical/etymological argument for keeping Easter going at least one more week.
Joy to the Heart
Look there! the Christ, our Brother, comes
resplendent from the gallows tree
and what he brings in his hurt hands
is life on life for you and me.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
Good Jesus Christ inside his pain
looked down Golgotha's stony slope
and let the blood flow from his flesh
to fill the springs of living hope.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
Good Jesus Christ, our Brother, died
in darkest hurt upon the tree
to offer us the worlds of light
that live inside the Trinity.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
Look there! the Christ, our Brother, comes
resplendent from the gallows tree
and what he brings in his hurt hands
is life on life for you and me.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
As we are in fact the Easter People,
Sing on!
In the more ancient and developed church calendars, each of the Sundays following Easter have a special name. (No, I don't know them all; but I can find them quickly.) These names come from the scripture that is featured in that day's reading, and bear the Latin form of that reading. Which is why the Sunday immediately following Easter can go by the rather mundane "Second Sunday of Easter" or ... Quasimodo.
Most of us know the word from the Victor Hugo novel. (Well, probably actually not from the novel itself, but from one or another of its film versions!) The Hunchback of Notre Dame was named "Quasimodo" by the priest who raised him, because he was found abandoned, on the Sunday following Easter, Quasimodo.
Quasimodo elides the first two words of the Latin scripture: Quasi modo geniti infantes, "Like newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that by it you may grow up to salvation - if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good." (1 Peter 2:2-3) That scripture continues: "As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house ..."
Well, I am thinking of these things as the choir will be preparing one of my favorite Easter hymn/anthems. We don't intentionally prolong Easter in our services (except that, as noted above, we see every Sunday as a tribute to the resurrection). But I always think we must come back on Quasimodo prepared to sing more Easter-specifically! And it is, after all, also called "the Octave of Easter" - that is, the 8th day of the season. There's your musical/etymological argument for keeping Easter going at least one more week.
Joy to the Heart
Look there! the Christ, our Brother, comes
resplendent from the gallows tree
and what he brings in his hurt hands
is life on life for you and me.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
Good Jesus Christ inside his pain
looked down Golgotha's stony slope
and let the blood flow from his flesh
to fill the springs of living hope.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
Good Jesus Christ, our Brother, died
in darkest hurt upon the tree
to offer us the worlds of light
that live inside the Trinity.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
Look there! the Christ, our Brother, comes
resplendent from the gallows tree
and what he brings in his hurt hands
is life on life for you and me.
Joy! joy! joy to the heart all in this good day's dawning!
John Bennett, 1920-1991
(c) 1980, John Bennett
Sing on!
31 March 2010
Love Unknown
Sunday night we heard and meditated on the "Seven Last Words" - with the Haydn sonatas providing the environment for reflection following the College Church pastors' devotions based on the sayings of Jesus upon the cross. Perhaps better suited for Good Friday (Haydn's work was in fact written for the Good Friday services of a particular church), the service nevertheless served us well as we entered Passion Week. To contemplate the love and grace of our Lord, expressed through his agony, in these memorable statements, was a gift of time and words and music.
Just now I have come back from the sanctuary, where things are already set for the Good Friday service. The cross in place, the table ready for the elements signifying the body broken, the blood shed, the banners proclaiming the work and praise of the suffering Servant. With the "Last Words" ringing in our ears, we will next be in a service that lingers on this mercy, this grace.
What a fitting conclusion to that service, then, as we again sing of the great love of God for his people. For it is not a hymn of our love for God. But always, and fittingly, of his love for us.
My song is love unknown, my Savior's love to me,
love to the loveless shown, that they might lovely be.
But who am I that for my sake
my Lord should take frail flesh and die?
He came from heaven's throne, salvation to bestow;
but they refused and none the longed-for Christ would know.
This is my friend, my friend indeed,
who at my need his life did spend.
Sometimes they crowd his way and his sweet praises sing,
resounding all the day hosannas to their king.
Then "crucify" is all their breath,
and for his death they thirst and cry.
With angry shouts they have my dear Lord done away;
a murderer they save, the Prince of Life they slay!
Yet willingly he bears the shame
that through his name all might be free.
Why, what has my Lord done to cause such rage and spite?
He made the lame to run and gave the blind their sight.
What injuries! Yet these are why
the Lord most high so cruelly dies.
Here might I stay and sing of him my soul adores.
Never was love, dear King, never was grief like yours!
This is my friend in whose sweet praise
I all my days could gladly spend.
Just now I have come back from the sanctuary, where things are already set for the Good Friday service. The cross in place, the table ready for the elements signifying the body broken, the blood shed, the banners proclaiming the work and praise of the suffering Servant. With the "Last Words" ringing in our ears, we will next be in a service that lingers on this mercy, this grace.
What a fitting conclusion to that service, then, as we again sing of the great love of God for his people. For it is not a hymn of our love for God. But always, and fittingly, of his love for us.
My song is love unknown, my Savior's love to me,
love to the loveless shown, that they might lovely be.
But who am I that for my sake
my Lord should take frail flesh and die?
He came from heaven's throne, salvation to bestow;
but they refused and none the longed-for Christ would know.
This is my friend, my friend indeed,
who at my need his life did spend.
Sometimes they crowd his way and his sweet praises sing,
resounding all the day hosannas to their king.
Then "crucify" is all their breath,
and for his death they thirst and cry.
With angry shouts they have my dear Lord done away;
a murderer they save, the Prince of Life they slay!
Yet willingly he bears the shame
that through his name all might be free.
Why, what has my Lord done to cause such rage and spite?
He made the lame to run and gave the blind their sight.
What injuries! Yet these are why
the Lord most high so cruelly dies.
Here might I stay and sing of him my soul adores.
Never was love, dear King, never was grief like yours!
This is my friend in whose sweet praise
I all my days could gladly spend.
Samuel Crossman, 1664;
rev. 1982 (c) Hope Publishing Co.
Every year more people are introduced to this hymn in our (and many another) Good Friday service. And each year, more people look forward to singing it again. I pray that its narrative, and its response, would constantly be shaping our hearts as we
Sing on
24 March 2010
For the Living of These Days, 6
And so we come to the last of our Lenten hymns. Sunday is Palm Sunday, the beginning of our Easter season services. Jesus' conflicts have been many, and they will only get worse as next week unfolds. He has suffered in many ways throughout his life and ministry; but the greatest suffering is yet to come. He has been despised and rejected by many; he will ultimately be despised and rejected by all. What most of the Church calls "Holy Week" I have learned to call "Passion Week." Because even from the moment of his "triumphal" entry into Jerusalem Jesus suffers - he is in conflict, he is misunderstood, he is abandoned. Ultimately, he is forsaken. All this, and then he goes to the cross and there all this comes upon him at once, and finally.
This is the Savior, who came not to be served, but to serve. This is the high priest who is the sacrifice, and the altar, and the foundation of the temple. We have walked through Lent knowing the full story; in our coming services we "re-live" the story, knowing from this side of the cross how it turns out - yet needing to be reminded again that it was for us. And desiring again to live in loving, joyful, grateful response to that great work.
We end these Lenten hymns with one of the most ancient of Chrisitan hymns still in use:
Lord Jesus, think on me, and purge away my sin;
from earth-born passions set me free, and make me pure within.
Lord Jesus, think on me, with care and woe oppressed;
let me thy loving servant be, and taste thy promised rest.
Lord Jesus, think on me, amid the battle's strife;
in all my pain and misery be thou my health and life.
Lord Jesus, think on me, nor let me go astray;
through darkness and perplexity point thou the heavenly way.
Lord Jesus, think on me, when flows the tempest high:
When on doth rush the enemy, O Savior, be thou nigh.
Lord Jesus, think on me, that, when the flood is past,
I may eternal brightness see, and share thy joy at last.
This is the Savior, who came not to be served, but to serve. This is the high priest who is the sacrifice, and the altar, and the foundation of the temple. We have walked through Lent knowing the full story; in our coming services we "re-live" the story, knowing from this side of the cross how it turns out - yet needing to be reminded again that it was for us. And desiring again to live in loving, joyful, grateful response to that great work.
We end these Lenten hymns with one of the most ancient of Chrisitan hymns still in use:
Lord Jesus, think on me, and purge away my sin;
from earth-born passions set me free, and make me pure within.
Lord Jesus, think on me, with care and woe oppressed;
let me thy loving servant be, and taste thy promised rest.
Lord Jesus, think on me, amid the battle's strife;
in all my pain and misery be thou my health and life.
Lord Jesus, think on me, nor let me go astray;
through darkness and perplexity point thou the heavenly way.
Lord Jesus, think on me, when flows the tempest high:
When on doth rush the enemy, O Savior, be thou nigh.
Lord Jesus, think on me, that, when the flood is past,
I may eternal brightness see, and share thy joy at last.
Greek, Synesius of Cyrene (375-430)
Tr. A. W. Chatfield (1808-96)
In the living of these days,
Sing on!
17 March 2010
For the Living of These Days, 5
It is a temptation easy to fall to, to feature today the famous prayer of St. Patrick. As things go, St. Patrick's Day always falls during Lent. And this prayer (from which we also have a hymn, italicized below) is certainly apt for our theme, "For the living of these days."
I bind unto myself today the strong name of the Trinity,
by invocation of the same, the Three in One, and One in Three.
I bind this day to me forever by power of faith Christ's incarnation,
his baptism in the Jordan river, his death on the cross for my salvation;
his bursting from the spiced tomb, his riding up the heavenly way,
his coming at the day of doom I bind unto myself today.
I bind unto myself today the power of God to hold and lead,
his eye to watch, his might to stay, his ear to harken to my need,
the wisdom of my God to teach, his hand to guide, his shield to ward,
the Word of God to give me speech, his hevenly host to be my guard.
Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me;
Christ to comfort and restore me;
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.
I bind unto myself today the strong name of the Trinity,
by invocation of the same, the Three in One, and One in Three,
of whom all nature hath creation, eternal Father, Spirit, Word;
praise to the God of my salvation, salvation is of Christ the Lord!
I bind unto myself today the strong name of the Trinity,
by invocation of the same, the Three in One, and One in Three.
I bind this day to me forever by power of faith Christ's incarnation,
his baptism in the Jordan river, his death on the cross for my salvation;
his bursting from the spiced tomb, his riding up the heavenly way,
his coming at the day of doom I bind unto myself today.
I bind unto myself today the power of God to hold and lead,
his eye to watch, his might to stay, his ear to harken to my need,
the wisdom of my God to teach, his hand to guide, his shield to ward,
the Word of God to give me speech, his hevenly host to be my guard.
Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me;
Christ to comfort and restore me;
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.
I bind unto myself today the strong name of the Trinity,
by invocation of the same, the Three in One, and One in Three,
of whom all nature hath creation, eternal Father, Spirit, Word;
praise to the God of my salvation, salvation is of Christ the Lord!
attributed to St. Patrick, c. 430
para, Cecil Frances Alexander, 1889
So focused, surrounded, and filled with Jesus, let us
Sing on!
10 March 2010
For the Living of These Days, 4
It is a season for "heart work." Today's seasonal prayer hymn may not normally be associated with Lent, so I was interested to see it in that section of one of my hymnals. If you associate this text with the robust tune AZMON (O for a thousand tongues to sing) - as it is in Hymns for the Living Church - you may miss the aptness of this text for today. A common meter text, I suppose there are many possible melodic options. The tune BELMONT serves nicely.
O for a heart to praise my God,
a heart from sin set free;
a heart that always feels thy blood
so freely spilt for me.
A heart resigned, submissive, meek,
my dear Redeemer's throne;
where only Christ is heard to speak,
where Jesus reigns alone.
A humble, lowly, contrite heart,
believing, true, and clean,
which neither life nor death can part
from him that dwells within.
A heart in every thought renewed,
and full of love divine;
perfect and right and pure and good,
a copy, Lord, of thine.
My heart, thou know'st, can never rest
till thou create my peace;
till of mine Eden repossest, [sic]
from self, and sin, I cease.
Thy nature, gracious Lord, impart,
come quickly from above;
write thy new name upon my heart,
thy new best name of love.
O for a heart to praise my God,
a heart from sin set free;
a heart that always feels thy blood
so freely spilt for me.
A heart resigned, submissive, meek,
my dear Redeemer's throne;
where only Christ is heard to speak,
where Jesus reigns alone.
A humble, lowly, contrite heart,
believing, true, and clean,
which neither life nor death can part
from him that dwells within.
A heart in every thought renewed,
and full of love divine;
perfect and right and pure and good,
a copy, Lord, of thine.
My heart, thou know'st, can never rest
till thou create my peace;
till of mine Eden repossest, [sic]
from self, and sin, I cease.
Thy nature, gracious Lord, impart,
come quickly from above;
write thy new name upon my heart,
thy new best name of love.
Charles Wesley (`1707-88)
I have left the text intact as I found it, with a couple of verses we don't normally see in the hymnals, and with presumably fewer hymnal editors' emendations. I find that taking it out of the context in which we normally sing it has brought fresh meaning to my experience of it.
Sing on!
03 March 2010
For the Living of These Days, 3
When the days drew near for [Jesus] to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. (Luke 9:51) So Luke foreshadows that this trip to Jerusalem "will not end well" by human standards. Immediately along the way he is rejected by Samaritans, and also welcomed by a number of well-meaning people who had not counted the cost of following. (Contrast Thomas, who later, in another context and another gospel, famously suggested "Let us also go, that we may die with him." John 11:16) Jesus addressed one of these wanna-be disciples with these arresting words: "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." (Luke 9:62)
The prayer which is today's seasonal hymn reminds us that these are days to consider the plowing ahead of us as we follow Jesus to Jerusalem.
Eternal Lord of love, behold your Church
walking once more the pilgrim way of Lent,
led by your cloud by day, by night your fire,
moved by your love and toward your presence bent:
Far off yet here - the goal of all desire.
So daily dying to the way of self,
so daily living to your way of love,
we walk the road, Lord Jesus, that you trod,
knowing ourselves baptized into your death:
So we are dead and live with you in God.
If dead in you, so in you we arise,
you the first-born of all the faithful dead;
and, as through stony ground the green shoots break,
glorious in springtime dress of leaf and flower,
so in the Father's glory shall we wake.
The prayer which is today's seasonal hymn reminds us that these are days to consider the plowing ahead of us as we follow Jesus to Jerusalem.
Eternal Lord of love, behold your Church
walking once more the pilgrim way of Lent,
led by your cloud by day, by night your fire,
moved by your love and toward your presence bent:
Far off yet here - the goal of all desire.
So daily dying to the way of self,
so daily living to your way of love,
we walk the road, Lord Jesus, that you trod,
knowing ourselves baptized into your death:
So we are dead and live with you in God.
If dead in you, so in you we arise,
you the first-born of all the faithful dead;
and, as through stony ground the green shoots break,
glorious in springtime dress of leaf and flower,
so in the Father's glory shall we wake.
Thomas H. Cain, 1982 (c) 1982
meter: 10 10 10 10 10
All our seasonal worship points to, is informed by, and properly includes the confident hope of Resurrection. Jesus knew that was before him, beyond the cross. And it is our great hope as well. Resurrection morning is but the capstone of our year. The real glory is still ahead of us!
Sing on!
24 February 2010
For the Living of These Days, 2
We are reading seasonal (Lenten) hymns to guide our hearts' preparation for Easter. The hymns each reference or allude to the biblical span of 40 days, as examples of such preparation. Forty days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness, before his public ministry began. We cannot miss the connection to the 40 days Moses spent on Mount Sinai ("the covenant so long revealed to those of faith in former time"). And we will later see the beautiful symmetry of the 40 days Jesus spent with his disciples after the resurrection. But today...
Now let us all with one accord,
in company with ages past,
keep vigil with our heavenly Lord
in his temptation and his fast.
The covenant, so long revealed
to those of faith in former time,
Christ by his own example sealed,
the Lord of love, in love sublime.
Your love, O Lord, our sinful race
has not returned, but falsified;
Author of mercy, turn your face
and grant repentance for our pride.
Remember, Lord, though frail we be,
in your own image were we made;
help us, lest in anxiety,
we cause your name to be betrayed.
Therefore we pray you, Lord, forgive;
so when our wanderings here shall cease,
we may with you forever live,
in love and unity and peace.
Now let us all with one accord,
in company with ages past,
keep vigil with our heavenly Lord
in his temptation and his fast.
The covenant, so long revealed
to those of faith in former time,
Christ by his own example sealed,
the Lord of love, in love sublime.
Your love, O Lord, our sinful race
has not returned, but falsified;
Author of mercy, turn your face
and grant repentance for our pride.
Remember, Lord, though frail we be,
in your own image were we made;
help us, lest in anxiety,
we cause your name to be betrayed.
Therefore we pray you, Lord, forgive;
so when our wanderings here shall cease,
we may with you forever live,
in love and unity and peace.
Latin hymn (6th century); trans. James Quinn, 1972 (alt.)
LM tune
The sentiment of this Lenten hymn is not the sackcloth and ashes of self-denial. Rather, it is the Chrisitan practice of humility, repentance, and longing to be made complete in Christ.
On your walk to Easter,
Sing on!
17 February 2010
For the Living of These Days
The season lasts 40 days - not counting Sundays - and is set apart by many in the church, for reflection, prayer, and even fasting. The design is that our Easter worship might be informed by a richer understanding of what it took for Jesus to do this mighty work for us.
There is nothing explicitly "biblical" about observing Lent. That is to say, we are never instructed to set aside these days. Of course, there is ample biblical example that has prompted Christians in many times and places to observe "40 days." (And not only "those liturgical types," either! Some of you will recall Chapel of the Air's call to 40 days; Campus Crusade's Bill Bright and his 40 day fasts; and Rick Warren's purpose driven 40 days.) Whether your spiritual disciplines change at all during these weeks leading up to Easter is, ultimately, immaterial. What is of importance for us all is that we never enter the Easter season assuming life and worship "as usual."
So beginning today, Ash Wednesday for some, Knowing the Score will highlight hymns that highlight the 40 days. May these biblical reflections in poetry (and melody) prepare our hearts for the grand celebration we will enjoy together on April 4.
The glory of these forty days
we celebrate with songs of praise;
for Christ, through whom all things were made,
himself has fasted and has prayed.
Alone and fasting Moses saw
the loving God who gave the law;
and to Elijah, fasting, came
the steeds and chariots of flame.
So Daniel trained his mystic sight,
delivered from the lions' might;
and John, the Bridegroom's friend,
became the herald of Messiah's name.
Then grant us, Lord, like them to be
full oft in fast and prayer with thee;
our spirits strengthen with thy grace,
and give us joy to see thy face.
O Father, Son, and Spirit blest,
to thee be every prayer addressed,
who art in three-fold name adored,
from age to age, the only Lord.
There is nothing explicitly "biblical" about observing Lent. That is to say, we are never instructed to set aside these days. Of course, there is ample biblical example that has prompted Christians in many times and places to observe "40 days." (And not only "those liturgical types," either! Some of you will recall Chapel of the Air's call to 40 days; Campus Crusade's Bill Bright and his 40 day fasts; and Rick Warren's purpose driven 40 days.) Whether your spiritual disciplines change at all during these weeks leading up to Easter is, ultimately, immaterial. What is of importance for us all is that we never enter the Easter season assuming life and worship "as usual."
So beginning today, Ash Wednesday for some, Knowing the Score will highlight hymns that highlight the 40 days. May these biblical reflections in poetry (and melody) prepare our hearts for the grand celebration we will enjoy together on April 4.
The glory of these forty days
we celebrate with songs of praise;
for Christ, through whom all things were made,
himself has fasted and has prayed.
Alone and fasting Moses saw
the loving God who gave the law;
and to Elijah, fasting, came
the steeds and chariots of flame.
So Daniel trained his mystic sight,
delivered from the lions' might;
and John, the Bridegroom's friend,
became the herald of Messiah's name.
Then grant us, Lord, like them to be
full oft in fast and prayer with thee;
our spirits strengthen with thy grace,
and give us joy to see thy face.
O Father, Son, and Spirit blest,
to thee be every prayer addressed,
who art in three-fold name adored,
from age to age, the only Lord.
Latin hymn "clarum decus jejunii (10th century)
translated Maurice F. Bell, 1906; alt.
Long Meter text; set to the tune ERHALT UNS, HERR
Historically, we fail to see that Lent, and its culmination on Good Friday, is in Jesus' view "glory." I appreciate how this text takes us into the season not as mourners, but as those perceiving glory, and giving praise.
Sing on!
10 February 2010
For Your Gift of God the Spirit
We've been considering the spiritual gifts and their role, their necessity, in music ministry. A church music program that runs on musical talent alone will not fully - I would say, cannot adequately - be a ministry of the Word. Even if its materials are completely solid biblically and theologically, there will be that certain something missing. It is hard to define, but I think we know the difference. "Deep calls to deep," and worshipers will know in their hearts when the "spirit" is missing.
So, today, a prayer for church musicians. The author, Margaret Clarkson (1915-2008) was one of North America's finest and most prolific hymn writers. Here is today's hymn - a prayer of praise, thanksgiving, and commitment - a rather rich theology of the Holy Spirit. The hymn serves at so many levels: it is prayer; it is instruction; it is devotion. The hymn is affirmation (this we believe), affection (this changes our hearts, mind, will), and it is action (therefore we live).
For your gift of God the Spirit,
power to make our lives anew,
pledge of life and hope of glory,
Savior, we would worship you.
Crowning gift of resurrection
sent from your ascended throne;
fullness of the very Godhead
come to make your life our own.
He, who in creation's dawning
brooded on the lifeless deep,
still across our nature's darkness
moves to wake our souls from sleep;
moves to stir, to draw, to quicken,
thrusts us through with sense of sin;
brings to birth and seals and fills us -
saving Advocate within.
He, himself the living Author,
wakes to life the sacred Word;
reads with us its holy pages
and reveals our risen Lord.
he it is who works within us
teaching rebel hearts to pray,
he whose holy intercessions
rise for us both night and day.
He, the mighty God, indwells us;
his to strengthen, help, empower;
his to overcome the tempter -
ours to call in danger's hour.
In his strength we dare to battle
all the raging hosts of sin,
and by him alone we conquer
foes without and foes within.
Father, grant your Holy Spirit
in our hearts may rule today,
grieved not, quenched not, but unhindered,
work in us his sovereign way.
Fill us with your holy fullness,
God the Father, Spirit, Son;
in us, through us, then, forever
shall your perfect will be done.
So, today, a prayer for church musicians. The author, Margaret Clarkson (1915-2008) was one of North America's finest and most prolific hymn writers. Here is today's hymn - a prayer of praise, thanksgiving, and commitment - a rather rich theology of the Holy Spirit. The hymn serves at so many levels: it is prayer; it is instruction; it is devotion. The hymn is affirmation (this we believe), affection (this changes our hearts, mind, will), and it is action (therefore we live).
For your gift of God the Spirit,
power to make our lives anew,
pledge of life and hope of glory,
Savior, we would worship you.
Crowning gift of resurrection
sent from your ascended throne;
fullness of the very Godhead
come to make your life our own.
He, who in creation's dawning
brooded on the lifeless deep,
still across our nature's darkness
moves to wake our souls from sleep;
moves to stir, to draw, to quicken,
thrusts us through with sense of sin;
brings to birth and seals and fills us -
saving Advocate within.
He, himself the living Author,
wakes to life the sacred Word;
reads with us its holy pages
and reveals our risen Lord.
he it is who works within us
teaching rebel hearts to pray,
he whose holy intercessions
rise for us both night and day.
He, the mighty God, indwells us;
his to strengthen, help, empower;
his to overcome the tempter -
ours to call in danger's hour.
In his strength we dare to battle
all the raging hosts of sin,
and by him alone we conquer
foes without and foes within.
Father, grant your Holy Spirit
in our hearts may rule today,
grieved not, quenched not, but unhindered,
work in us his sovereign way.
Fill us with your holy fullness,
God the Father, Spirit, Son;
in us, through us, then, forever
shall your perfect will be done.
Margaret Clarkson 1959, rev. 1984
(c) 1960, 1976 Hope Publishing Company
generally sung to the hym tune BLAENWERN, William Rowlands, 1905
We are not alone in this work, as we
Sing on!
27 January 2010
Body Building
Paul's letter to Corinth includes an extended discussion of spiritual gifts. Paired with his treatment of this same subject to other churches (Rome and Ephesus), we have a rather developed theology of gifts, giftedness, and the gifted. Consistent among the passages (1 Corinthians 12-14, Romans 12, Ephesians 4) is the metaphor of the body: the body working together, the body growing together, the body maturing together. Let's take as a summary statement this word: Let all things be done for building up. (1 Cor. 14:26)
This "bottom line" from Paul comes near the end of a 3-chapter discourse on the gifts. (As an aside, when we read the middle chapter, 1 Corinthians 13 - "the love chapter" - divorced from its context, we fail to understand it fully and apply it rightly.) We exercise our gifts among one another, so that we may together be "built up." The ultimate aim of the giftedness in any church is "maturity." And ultimately it is in the right exercise of each of our gifts ("in love") that we are to grow up into the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Eph. 4: 15-16)
Today I find it interesting that the summation of Paul's teaching about the right exercise of gifts, is in the context of gathered worship. Indeed, 1 Corinthians 14 is one of the most explicit passages about public worship in the New Testament. And this is consistent with that weekly gathering's role in advancing the same purposes as the gifts: maturity in Christ, serving one another in love, unity in Christ who is the head of the Body. Yes, we exercise our gifts wherever and whenever we are together - rehearsals, for example! But when we come together in the weekly gathering, we bring our service, the ways we have served and been served, and we continue this service to one another. Music? Well, for some reason Paul begins to wrap-up this long discussion thus: What then? When you come together, each one has a hymn ...(1 Cor. 14:26)
Our role as musicians in public worship begings to get worked out properly "behind the scenes," with our loving service to and with one another. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good... All these are empowerd by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one indivudually as he wills. (from 1 Cor. 12:4-11) It is not in our musical skill that we serve and are served, but rather in the gifts the Spirit gives. The same Spirit then uses that gift-infused musical preparation to minister through your music-making.
Continue to serve one another in love, as you
Sing on!
This "bottom line" from Paul comes near the end of a 3-chapter discourse on the gifts. (As an aside, when we read the middle chapter, 1 Corinthians 13 - "the love chapter" - divorced from its context, we fail to understand it fully and apply it rightly.) We exercise our gifts among one another, so that we may together be "built up." The ultimate aim of the giftedness in any church is "maturity." And ultimately it is in the right exercise of each of our gifts ("in love") that we are to grow up into the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Eph. 4: 15-16)
Today I find it interesting that the summation of Paul's teaching about the right exercise of gifts, is in the context of gathered worship. Indeed, 1 Corinthians 14 is one of the most explicit passages about public worship in the New Testament. And this is consistent with that weekly gathering's role in advancing the same purposes as the gifts: maturity in Christ, serving one another in love, unity in Christ who is the head of the Body. Yes, we exercise our gifts wherever and whenever we are together - rehearsals, for example! But when we come together in the weekly gathering, we bring our service, the ways we have served and been served, and we continue this service to one another. Music? Well, for some reason Paul begins to wrap-up this long discussion thus: What then? When you come together, each one has a hymn ...(1 Cor. 14:26)
Our role as musicians in public worship begings to get worked out properly "behind the scenes," with our loving service to and with one another. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good... All these are empowerd by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one indivudually as he wills. (from 1 Cor. 12:4-11) It is not in our musical skill that we serve and are served, but rather in the gifts the Spirit gives. The same Spirit then uses that gift-infused musical preparation to minister through your music-making.
Continue to serve one another in love, as you
Sing on!
20 January 2010
Spiritual Gifts
Music ministry is marked by apparent giftedness. That is (generally, hopefully, ideally) musical gifts are employed in the public leadership and expression of musical praise, prayer and proclamation. These gifts may be extraordinary; they may be modest. They may take us to the heights of transcendence; they may simply coach us along in the "duty and delight" which is our public worship. Music ministry presents itself through apparent giftedness.
But music ministry must be driven by spritual giftedness. By the exercise of gifts that are not generally "on display" when musicians play or sing in public. These are the gifts given freely by Jesus, through the Spirit, to build his church. Every local church - and every ministry within any local church - has been given the gifts to undertake the ministries God intends that church - and ministry within it - to do. Music is the public expression of the music ministry, but our work together to get there is accomplished in large part through the use of our gifts. St. Peter calls it the stewardship "of God's varied grace." (1 Peter 4:10)
We have looked briefly at the music ministry as "pastoral care" - in worship and among musicians outside of the sanctuary. This may be practiced through the exercise of gifts of mercy, helps, faith, prophecy, service, exhortation. It is more than just being nice to one another, though of course love will mark and drive the exercise of all our gifts.
In due time, our morning sermons will reach 1 Corinthians 12, a key passage regarding the gifts and our use of them. We'll explore that this winter, long before Pastor Moody gets there in the pulpit. Then that will be a good "check" on how we're doing! But for today, I just want to go to the same theme as Paul writes it to the Romans:
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.(Romans 12:1-8)
As you serve one another,
Sing on!
.
But music ministry must be driven by spritual giftedness. By the exercise of gifts that are not generally "on display" when musicians play or sing in public. These are the gifts given freely by Jesus, through the Spirit, to build his church. Every local church - and every ministry within any local church - has been given the gifts to undertake the ministries God intends that church - and ministry within it - to do. Music is the public expression of the music ministry, but our work together to get there is accomplished in large part through the use of our gifts. St. Peter calls it the stewardship "of God's varied grace." (1 Peter 4:10)
We have looked briefly at the music ministry as "pastoral care" - in worship and among musicians outside of the sanctuary. This may be practiced through the exercise of gifts of mercy, helps, faith, prophecy, service, exhortation. It is more than just being nice to one another, though of course love will mark and drive the exercise of all our gifts.
In due time, our morning sermons will reach 1 Corinthians 12, a key passage regarding the gifts and our use of them. We'll explore that this winter, long before Pastor Moody gets there in the pulpit. Then that will be a good "check" on how we're doing! But for today, I just want to go to the same theme as Paul writes it to the Romans:
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.(Romans 12:1-8)
As you serve one another,
Sing on!
.
13 January 2010
Serve One Another
Here at the outset of 2010, I am specially aware of some very deep needs among our musicians:
Injury
Illness
Cancer
Impending loss of a loved one
Recent loss of a loved one
Unemployment
Deep hurt and disappointment
And for even more, who are not themselves experiencing these things, but walking alongside one or more who are.
I am always encouraged to see you all continue in the trenches, through hard times as well as good times. It is surely a demonstration of the grip the Spirit has on you. I know, too, that it is evidence that you are being served by those you make music with.
Last week I wrote briefly about music as "pastoral care." With all the other things music accomplishes in worship, this dimension is often overlooked. And yet, I believe much of the time it is the primary work of music in church. And that ministry - the work of the Holy Spirit through your labors in music - is begun, and enhanced, by your care for one another.
Indeed, I would argue that effective music ministry depends on the exercise of each participant's spiritual gifts. Do we turn off the spiritual gifts when we come into a rehearsal? Do we not have the opportunity (to say nothing of obligation as stewards) to exercise the gifts God has given us wherever we are, whatever we are doing, whenever we are with his people? If God has given us all gifts for the building up of the church, then we may expect him to be prepared to use that gift in the context of music-making. And in using those gifts before and after public services of worship, we may have confidence that those gifts are also contributing to the whole body, even as we lead in worship through music.
So, if music in worship is pastoral care, then the effective preparation for that is our care for one another. This I see in our musicians, often and deeply. You pray for one another. You encourage one another. You help one another. This is the Spirit's work among you, building up the church-within-a-church which is our music ministry. And through it, the "musical church" is contributing to the heart and soul care of the College Church congregation (in ways we may never know, but may trust God for).
I am reflecting on these things today as I see so many of you coming alongside those who are hurting in the ways listed above. Be encouraged by these words of scripture:
... through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." (Galatians 5:13)
... with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit ... [and then there follows Paul's description of spiritual gifts] ... we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part works properly, makes the body grow so that it builds iself up in love. (from Ephesians 4:1 - 16)
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. (Romans 12:9-10)
If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. (1 Corinthians 12:27; then Paul ramps up to the excellent way of love, in chapter 13)
Keep on caring for one another, as you
Sing on!
Injury
Illness
Cancer
Impending loss of a loved one
Recent loss of a loved one
Unemployment
Deep hurt and disappointment
And for even more, who are not themselves experiencing these things, but walking alongside one or more who are.
I am always encouraged to see you all continue in the trenches, through hard times as well as good times. It is surely a demonstration of the grip the Spirit has on you. I know, too, that it is evidence that you are being served by those you make music with.
Last week I wrote briefly about music as "pastoral care." With all the other things music accomplishes in worship, this dimension is often overlooked. And yet, I believe much of the time it is the primary work of music in church. And that ministry - the work of the Holy Spirit through your labors in music - is begun, and enhanced, by your care for one another.
Indeed, I would argue that effective music ministry depends on the exercise of each participant's spiritual gifts. Do we turn off the spiritual gifts when we come into a rehearsal? Do we not have the opportunity (to say nothing of obligation as stewards) to exercise the gifts God has given us wherever we are, whatever we are doing, whenever we are with his people? If God has given us all gifts for the building up of the church, then we may expect him to be prepared to use that gift in the context of music-making. And in using those gifts before and after public services of worship, we may have confidence that those gifts are also contributing to the whole body, even as we lead in worship through music.
So, if music in worship is pastoral care, then the effective preparation for that is our care for one another. This I see in our musicians, often and deeply. You pray for one another. You encourage one another. You help one another. This is the Spirit's work among you, building up the church-within-a-church which is our music ministry. And through it, the "musical church" is contributing to the heart and soul care of the College Church congregation (in ways we may never know, but may trust God for).
I am reflecting on these things today as I see so many of you coming alongside those who are hurting in the ways listed above. Be encouraged by these words of scripture:
... through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." (Galatians 5:13)
... with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit ... [and then there follows Paul's description of spiritual gifts] ... we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part works properly, makes the body grow so that it builds iself up in love. (from Ephesians 4:1 - 16)
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. (Romans 12:9-10)
If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. (1 Corinthians 12:27; then Paul ramps up to the excellent way of love, in chapter 13)
Keep on caring for one another, as you
Sing on!
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