Sing Out!

Colossians 3:15-17
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

I’m not a musician but I love music. The worship music at church, songs I hear on the radio, and thanks to 93.9 Christmas music. Yes I’ve been listening to “O Holy Night,” “Away in a Manger,” and the instrumental music from A Charlie Brown Christmas. Plus lots of contemporary carols. Maybe I’m a little early, but it renews my spirit of thanksgiving and joy.

I like that the folks at the church in Colossians taught through music. Psalms, hymns and songs were filled with wisdom and shared among the people. Their voices lifted in praise. Some of my favorite hymns remind me how much Jesus loves me and how he died for me. I don’t know many Thanksgiving songs, but I know several that express thanks to the Lord. Psalm 100:4 paints a beautiful picture of rejoicing in the Lord. “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise give thanks to him and praise his name.” I picture a group of people dancing and singing and praising the King of Kings. This Thanksgiving, find the song in your heart and praise the Lord!

The Gift of Music

Psalm 96:1-3
Sing to the Lord a new song;
    sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, praise his name;
    proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations,
    his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

Growing up I was surrounded by music. Mom and Dad enjoyed classic country. To this day I remember the words to way too many Johnny Cash songs. My siblings listened to everything from Chubby Checker, Patsy Cline, and The Beetles, to Dottie Rambo and Dolly Parton. I learned to appreciate many genres including the pop and folk music of the sixties and seventies. But no music touches my heart like the notes that swell to the praises of Jesus.

There are many references to music in the Bible. The rocks sang out, the mountains and trees rejoiced. David played the lyre, and the psalms encouraged singing. When no one else is with me in the car, I turn up one of the contemporary Christian channels and make a joyful noise. At church I raise my voice with other believers in Jesus, and I am in the presence of God’s glory. I am thankful for the folks who use their talent to honor God. Praise God for the gift of music and gifted musicians.