Music Notes

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