Music Notes

It was a true joy to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord together last month. As my first Easter at Sewickley UMC, it was certainly one to remember. I am especially thankful to the chancel choir for all of the work they put into the music – it definitely was heard and appreciated. Having brass players with us also added a wonderful dimension to the music as we heralded the victory that our King received over the grave. Another special word of thanks goes to those in the congregation who joined us for Handel’s Halleluia Chorus, and swelled our ranks. There is a seat reserved for you in the choir room whenever you would like to claim it.
April will see the last of the Children’s Choir for this season, as they bring to us the familiar “Jesus Loves Me” in another language again. This year, it will be Ibo—one of the languages of Nigeria—a challenge for the children, but one they have met very well. It has been a joy to work with them over the past few months, along with Sandra Lane, and to see the excitement they have in singing to Jesus. I look forward to what this month holds for the music and choirs at SUMC, and for what God has in store for us, as well.

The Lord is risen. As we enter into the time where we remember Christ’s death for us, there is a mix of joy and sorrow. With deep humility, we can recall God’s wondrous love for us in Jesus’ death on the cross. As the hymn states, “What wondrous love is this, that caused the Lord of bliss, to bear the dreadful curse for my soul….” We are reminded that the punishment of all of us rested on him. He was despised, rejected, and bruised for our iniquity—a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. The music for this Passion season reminds us of the passion—the unrequited love—that Jesus has for us in suffering as he did.

But this season is also one of joy and hope, with his resurrection and victory. He has conquered death and sin, and provided a way for us to be with him. The sound of the trumpets we will hear on Easter point not only to this triumph, but also to the moment we anticipate, when the trumpet shall once again sound, and the Lord shall return. Because Christ paid our sacrifice, and bore our griefs and sorrows, we are able to have victory with him not only in the future, but as we live from day to day. He has provided a way for us to live victorious lives, filled with His risen presence. What wondrous love, indeed. May the joy of new life fill our hearts this season, as we express this through our singing, music, and worship. The Lord is risen, indeed. Alleluia.

Dan