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How Can I Keep from Singing?
(MY Life Flows on in Endless Song)
Sometimes I visit nursing homes and sing hymns with people who are losing their memories. What's interesting is that even when the conversation falters with random responses, as soon as we start singing, their memories come alive, and we sing together. For those experiencing memory loss or decline, hymns can be particularly helpful. The melodies and lyrics of familiar hymns can act as triggers, unlocking dormant memories and emotions. Haven't we all found ourselves singing along in the car or shower? Music is integral to our spiritual expression, deeply ingrained in our Methodist heritage.
Years ago, my son died of cancer. I felt only sorrow. My heart ached with grief. I wondered if I would ever be happy again, let alone want to sing. Then I heard this song. As gloomy as I felt, the song lifted my spirits: MY Life Flows on in Endless Song. It was in the midst of this overwhelming struggle and grief that I could sing hymns of song and thanksgiving. Strife is not the last word. Through music, we rediscover hope and resilience.
Having seen the brightness of Epiphany, we prepare now for the holy darkness of Lent. We cannot foresee the challenges ahead or anticipate how God will speak to us. Yet, amidst the chaos of our times, let us not overlook the importance of praising God. The hymns we sing will fill us with the peace and hope of God leading us through all circumstances. Therefore, we, living in the midst of much confusion, must also realize and apply the resolution of G. K. Chesterton. “We must somehow find a way of loving the world without trusting it; somehow we must love the world without being worldly.” Only then can we truly embrace the sincere confession of "How Can I Keep from Singing."
Reflection: How Can I Keep from Singing?
(MY Life Flows on in Endless Song)
How Can I Keep From Singing - Enya
My life flows on in endless song; Above earth's lamentation
I hear the sweet though far off hymn; That hails a new creation:
Through all the tumult and the strife, I hear the music ringing;
It finds an echo in my soul- How can I keep from singing?
What though my joys and comforts die? The Lord my Savior liveth;
What though the darkness gather round! Songs in the night He giveth:
No storm can shake my inmost calm While to that refuge clinging;
Since Christ is Lord of heaven and earth, How can I keep from singing?
I lift mine eyes; the cloud grows thin; I see the blue above it;
And day by day this pathway smoothes’ Since first I learned to love it:
The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart, A fountain ever springing:
All things are mine since I am His- How can I keep from singing?
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