by Victoria Heinecke

Is there a reason to sing?

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Sing to the Lord a new song;
    sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, praise his name;
    proclaim his salvation day after day.”
Psalm 96:1-2 New International Version

A popular Christmas movie is known for the line, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” During my years as a choral musician, my fellow singers and I have sometimes bemoaned the extra rehearsals, numerous concerts and extra church services which occurred in Decembers past. The extra commitment often meant minimally decorated homes and cards sent later. There was little time to do much more.

I wouldn’t give up singing in order to get cards mailed on time or to prepare a special Christmas feast. Making music with dozens of fellow singers is an indescribable feeling, and seeing the smiles in the audience at the end assures us that all of the work preparing the concert made some difference in the listener’s season.

This year, many musicians are out of work or working non-performing jobs. Some choirs have been rehearsing online to prepare something to give to the community this season. Many more choirs are not singing in church or public venues. However, is public singing limited to choirs and trained singers? St Paul might reply, “By no means!”

“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.””
Luke 2:13-14 New International Version

St Luke records the account of Jesus’ birth. The choir of angels sang to the shepherds in a field, in the middle of the night. Imagine how that must have looked and sounded!

This month, members of the Colorado Springs Chorale have been performing around our community. There is no concert hall nor symphonic fanfare, no tuxedos or gowns. It hasn’t stopped the singing of “Glory to God in the Highest” and “Silent Night, Holy Night.”

Nothing can stop Christmas from coming. It will arrive, and we can praise God for his unending love for us. It’s a love that sent Jesus to be our Savior, to teach us, and to die for our sins.

There is definitely a reason to sing.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Photo copyright Jamie Grandy. Used by permission.