Alicia Taylor
Life Is a Song, Love Is the Music
Be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts.
-Ephesians 5:18b-19 (NRSV)
Martin Luther once said that music is the art of the prophets, the only art that can calm the agitations of the soul, one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us. Every kind of appropriate song - whether psalms like those of the Old Testament, or hymns directed to God or to others that Christians are accustomed to singing - can provide a means for praising and thanking God.
Singing has always been a central experience of the people of God. From very early on in the scriptures right up to today, singing has been a powerful, shared experience of God's people. Across the country and around the world, we gather weekly to worship. We assemble with the people of God, filled with joy, and we sing!
Music evokes powerful memories, and singing the songs of our faith instills hope and helps us to connect with one another in a way that is rich and deep. As a young child in Vacation Bible School, I remember one particular song that was my favorite. How many of you know this tune by heart and can sing along from memory?
I have a song that Jesus gave me.
It was sent from heaven above.
There never was a sweeter melody.
'Tis a melody of love.
In my heart there rings a melody,
There rings a melody with heaven's harmony.
In my heart, there rings a melody,
There rings a melody of love!
I cannot imagine a life without music, and I thank God every day for the gift. I thank you for sharing in my song and for allowing me to write a verse or two with you. It has been a privilege and my sincere joy to serve with you in ministry for the past eleven years.
I covet your prayers as I begin a new chapter in my life. Please know that you will remain in my heart and prayers always. Life is a song, and love is indeed the music. Sing a new song to the Lord, and know that I love you!
For now, I will sign off with the signature Erma Bombeck quote which sums up my entire life of ministry in song. To God be the glory!
Prayer for Today
Let every instrument be tuned for praise! Let all rejoice who have a voice to raise! And may God give us faith to sing always: Alleluia! Amen.
