A song in my heart

The LORD is my strength and my shield;
   my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
   and with my song I praise him. 

Psalm 28:7

Some of the most reassuring verses in the Bible come from the Psalms.  They recite praise, lament injustice, comfort the sick, rejoice in blessing, and celebrate God’s creation.  From birth through joy and hardship, even unto death the Psalms echo our experiences.  Can there be any human experience which is not present in at least one Psalm?    

Each experience, each chapter was written to sing with musical instruments.  Many chapters begin with musical explanations of “A Maskil”, “to the tune of Lillies”, or “to the tune A Dove on Distant Oaks.”  Some were written for a specific person to sing such as the Director of Music, Sons of Korah, David, or Asaph.  Others were written for the congregation as wedding songs, prayer petitions, or songs of ascent.  

It is as though God and the Jewish people knew life could only be fully explained when retold through song.  Music and poetry capture the depth of emotions when simple words will not satisfy.  The blending of music, poetry, and voice into a chord of three strands wraps itself around the human heart, tugging against memories, bringing the joy and pain of life into full view.

What a privilege to stand before the congregation offering the chord of three strands to touch their hearts.  It is a blessing to participate in a choir with so many gifted people, and in a church where music is a vital part of worship.  How could I not sing with joy in my heart?   

Dear Lord, you are my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in you, and you help me. My heart leaps for joy, and with songs I praise you.