Dear brothers and sisters in Christ
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!”
“Deck the hall with boughs of holly garland – Fa, la, la, la, la…”
This time of year, song fills the air, and it fills my heart too.
Here are five reasons that we sing in worship. God commands us to sing.
- God commands us to sing. There are hundreds of references to singing within the Bible. Jesus Himself sang songs of praise after the Last Supper. If we are called to replicate the character of Christ, I’m confident that singing should always be involved.
- Christians have sung throughout history. The earliest Christians put their community beliefs in songs, which is why Christian hymnody began. Songs are recorded in scripture and other historical texts. The Book of Psalms in the Bible is a great resource for reading songs of believers that have gone before us.
- Songs can give us theology. As you may know, hymns and other Christian songs are full of rich, theological text. The act of singing uses both parts of the brain; therefore, it can educate us and teach us about the gospel of Jesus Christ.
- Singing connects us emotionally. Songs of celebration have the power to lead us to dance. Songs of lament have the power to lead us to tears. Music has a way of piercing into the deep parts of our soul, that assists in our expression and response to God and to the church.
- Singing helps unites us to the church. The gospel alone unites believers to one another. However, music is a tool that allows us to do so. As we gather on the Sabbath, we join together as one body and praise God with one voice.
So, during this Advent and Christmas season sing. Now, I know that God gives each of us different gifts. But at the end of the day, we all are called, wanted, and expected to sing.
“Sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth! Sing to the Lord! Bless His name! Share the news of his saving work every single day!” (Psalm 96)
Join us for the hymn sing before the evening Advent services. Don’t miss the Christmas and Carol services on December 7 and 8. Enjoy the Christmas and Advent hymns you have sung your whole life. Rejoice in the liturgy set to Christmas tunes.
During this time of year, there are plenty of great hymns and carols to sing.
After all, “It’s Christmastime. It’s Christmastime.”
Happy Advent, Merry Christmas
Pastor Hartwig