Devotional Thoughts Based on the Glory to God Hymnal

Isaiah 9:2-7

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them light has shined. B You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and righteousness from this time onward and forevermore.

From the third grade on I spent time singing in church and school choirs and occasionally in community programs. The longest time I have not been a choir member has been my time here as your Associate Pastor. I look forward to getting back to singing in a choir when I have more time.

Included in our hymnbook, Glory to God, there are two hymns whose harmonization is great. One is written for Eastertide, O Sacred Head, Now Wounded, and the other, Christmastide, Break Forth O Beauteous Heavenly Light. Both are attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach. The tenors do not have the melody, but they have great lines, and it is fun to sing with the choir. Once again, we see how light in Isaiah 9:2-7 serves as a scriptural reference to this Christmas hymn.

Read/sing:

Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light,
and usher in the morning.
You shepherds, shudder not with fright,
but hear the angel’s warning.
This child now weak in infancy,
our confidence and joy shall be.
the power of Satan breaking,
our peace eternal making.

Prayer

O God, a novelty song is entitled All God’s Critters Got a Place in the Choir. Indeed, they do, for all of us can praise You. As we listen, as we sing, we blend our voices. Let us find joy as we sing together in harmony. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.