Make A Joyful Noise

 Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous;

    it is fitting for the upright to praise him.

Praise the Lord with the harp;

    make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre.

Sing to him a new song;

    play skillfully, and shout for joy.

                                    Psalm 33:1-3

It’s been a loooong six months since we’ve been able to worship in the sanctuary.  While we’ve had music as part of the livestream services, we haven’t been able to enjoy live music.  Today we were able to see the Chancel Choir as it virtually sang together.  From home, each choir member rehearsed and sang the hymn with a recording of the accompaniment.  The video of the hymn was sent to Dr. Brian Lew, who edited it together.  It’s rather amazing to see what can be done with the right software and someone who is talented in using the software. 

I have many memories of wonderful music at Eastridge, from the Carol Choir, which was for children in first, second, and third grades, singing for the Easter Sunrise service, to all choirs joining together to sing “O Holy Night” on Christmas Eve and “The Palms” on Palm Sunday.  We are fortunate now to have Brian as the music director and Brent Shaw as the extremely talented organist.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no live music in the sanctuary for an extended period of time.  It’s been shown that singing can be responsible for the spread of the virus through the air. 

Some people attend worship for the sermon and liturgy, and others attend for the music.  Music has the power to move people, to touch people, and to reach people. Whether it’s the melody of an old familiar hymn or the words of a contemporary praise song, music impacts our worship. It provides another way for us to turn our hearts and minds to God and to thank Him for our blessings.  So, until we can be together in person again, give thanks that we have other ways to make a joyful noise unto the Lord.  Sing along with the hymns at home.  And pray that we can be together soon!

Prayer: Dearest Lord, thank you for your gift of music. It lifts us up and offers us encouragement. We pray that we may use this gift to praise you and to worship you in all your glory.  Amen.

Robin Hadfield