There’s Something About That Name

Then the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for God has been gracious to you; you shall conceive and bear a son, and you shall give him the name Jesus. Luke 1:30-31 NEB

I’m pretty sure many of you think gospel music and old hymns are passe’, but I still love to hear the old songs with their uplifting messages. So, I attend the once-a-month gospel concerts sponsored by Midwest Gospel Music which are held at the Piedmont Park Seventh-day Adventist Church here in Lincoln. Since I can no longer drive at night due to visual acuity problems, I am greatly blessed that my friend, Berna, also enjoys the music and she is willing to drive so that we can attend. 

Last week we went to a concert presented by The Guardian Quartet. They are an excellent male quartet who sing close “barbershop type” harmony. Each member is talented in his own way with singing, writing music, and playing instruments, etc. 

It was during the concert’s intermission while an offering was being taken that a unique happening took place. One of the members of the quartet started playing on the keyboard as the plates were being passed. When he began playing the song, “There’s Something About That Name,” a few people in the front of the church started to softly sing the words. A hush came over the room. The sound of just a few people softly singing in the midst of a large crowd was beautiful and ethereal. We could feel the holy spirit moving through the room, while slowly and softly section by section everyone joined in the singing. 

It was such a strong sensation that the rest of the members of the quartet hurried back to the stage and one of the members of the quartet started to pray for us. Then he thanked the audience for singing and honoring them in such a way before they started to sing again. 

These concerts are such a blessing in so many ways. Not only do we get to hear the songs sung in beautiful 4-part harmony, but we often hear the inspiring testimonies of the singers. Occasionally an audience member will also share his/her testimony. It is the one place I go where the joy in just being a Christian can be seen on the faces of those in attendance. 

Truly, “There’s Just Something about That Name!” 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for these times of praise and worship when we so strongly feel Your presence through the Holy Spirit. Two thousand years after the Angel’s Annunciation to Mary, we still adore the name of Your Son, Jesus The Christ. Thank You for sending Him to us. It’s in His name we pray. Amen

Judy Welch