Not a Burden, But a Blessing

REFLECTIONS
May 17, 2009

Psalm 98 is an invitation for believers to respond in faith through music. Though less demonstrative than Psalm 150, the instructions are clear. Persons of faith are to use music as an integral part of worship.

Of course, we as modern people have the full benefit of musical developments over the centuries. The Church has a rich history of great music composed for worship settings. Inspired composers have written great pieces for the seasons of Advent, Lent, Easter and Pentecost. Others have written for the settings of worship, be it Morning, Evening, Communion, Baptism, Wedding or Funeral services. These great pieces of music were given to the church not merely to admire, but to inspire others to compose new music which in turn would be passed on.

We know throughout history, in sacred and secular settings, music has been a powerful influence. William Congreve, the 18th century playwright wrote, “Music has charms to soothe a savage beast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.” Another William (Shakespeare) frequently used music references or terms to make a point in his plays. In TWELFTH NIGHT he penned, “If music be the food of love, play on; give me excess of it...” In THE MERCHANT OF VENICE, he writes, “...here we sit, and let the sounds of music creep in our ears: soft stillness and the night becomes the touches of sweet harmony.” Then, later in the play he writes, “The man that hath no music in himself, nor is not moved with concord of sweet sounds, is fit for treasons, stratagems and spoils; the motions of his spirit are dull as night, and his affections as Erebus; let no such man be trusted.”

The Psalmist implores us to sing a new song, or shout for joy because of what God has done. The playwright encourages us to use music as a tool of measure for those things we value in life.

Music is used to sell us everything from produce to politicians. It floods our senses in markets, waiting rooms and elevators. How easy it is to forget that it is a gift from God. The music we make has holy implications. As Saint Francis wrote, “Lord make me an instrument of your peace...” As the music plays, may we be open to the Creator, composing new music within us.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601