Sing Me To Heaven

“In my heart’s sequestered chambers lie truths stripped of poets’ gloss Words alone are vain and vacant, and my heart is mute

In response to aching silence, memory summons half-heard voices And my soul finds primal eloquence, and wraps me in song

If you would comfort me, sing me a lullaby

If you would win my heart, sing me a love song

If you would mourn me and bring me to God, sing me a requiem, sing me to Heaven

“Sing Me to Heaven” — Daniel Gawthrop, composer, Jane Griner, lyrics

Throughout my life I have experienced God through music. Whether performing, listening or participating in music of corporate worship there are times when I feel God beside me – sometimes joining me in joy, sometimes urging me to be still, and sometimes comforting me. That moment (either fleeting, or long-lasting) may be caused by a melody, text, mode, or harmony and could be familiar or new music; however the experience is never planned and is very special. I’m sure others have had similar experiences of music making God seem close or the message of a song communicating a truth to a deep place in his/her heart.

The Psalms urge us to “Clap our hands and sing praises,” but also to “Be still and know that I am God.” Matthew tells of Jesus and the disciples singing a hymn before going to the Mount of Olives. Three different scenarios yet all present the opportunity to experience God. No matter the genre, music speaks to us in a way that words and actions cannot. It is up to us to be open to hear it.

Sara Josey

Appointed readings for today: Daniel 9:3-10, Psalm 79:1-9, Luke 6:27-38