“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Growing up, I remember my mom saying to the three of us, “All I want is a little peace and quiet.” We were pretty active and loud especially when we were inside because of bad weather. I can’t imagine what these past eight months have been like for parents of school age children. Even those of us with adult children have wished for peace and quiet! Families everywhere are constantly peacemakers within their own homes if they want to get some “peace and quiet.” Meanwhile, the world at large is anything but at peace. Sunday’s music is directed toward asking for and having the inner peace that comes with belief in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
Dona Nobis Pacem, hymn number 752 in Glory to God, is a well-known tune among choristers everywhere. Our service will open with choir members leading the congregation in a round. Dona Nobis Pacem is part of the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) section of the Roman Catholic Mass and in parts of reformed worship, as well. “Grant us peace” has been set to many tunes, but this is the one that children and youth learn to sing. When rounds are sung, harmony suddenly happens as a result – introducing the skill of singing in parts.
The Chancel Choir Ensemble will offer It is Well With My Soul in an arrangement by John Ness Beck. The original hymn was written by Horatio Spafford who was inspired by great tragedy in his life. Losing his daughters to a shipwreck and then his son to illness, he was a broken man. The words speak to us today in our current circumstances:
When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll, whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, let this blest assurance control, that Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed his own blood for my soul. It is well with my soul.
Our hymn of praise is 610 O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing which speaks of the name of Jesus taking away our fears and sorrows, allowing everyone to hear, and bringing life and health and peace.
Psalm 122 is a prayer of peace written by David.
I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Our feet are standing in your gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem is built like a city that is closely compacted together. That is where the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, to praise the name of the Lord according to the statute given to Israel. There the thrones for judgment stand, the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels. For the sake of my brothers and friends, I will say, “Peace be within you.” For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity. – The NIV Study Bible
Love, Peace, and Gratitude,
Rhonda