Last weekend, I sang in our choir Christmas presentation. Unless you are a singer, I’m not sure you can fully understand the joy it brings to stand side-by-side with others who are singing. A camaraderie exists in blending voices and finally “getting” difficult passages. While the audience hears seemingly effortless, beautiful music, only vocalists know the hours of practice behind the outcome.
Music is a gift any time of the year, but especially at Christmas.
Music Brings Nostalgic Memories
I have memories of listening to Christmas music on the radio and playing thick 78 Christmas records on a record player that folded down from a piece of furniture. (Yes, dating myself to the 1950s!) I remember going to the television station, dressed in winter clothes, to sing Christmas carols in a hot studio. Music evokes pleasant remembrance of family, church, and all the joys of the season.
Music Stays in Your Head
While preparing for this year’s Christmas program, I was reminded of how melodies and words remain in our minds long after listened to or sung. Music and words combine to lift spirits, teach truths, and broaden understanding. When frustration rules your day, shift your perspective with a song.
Music Gets Us Through Hard Times
This week, I learned of the sudden death of a friend’s husband. My friend is an accomplished pianist. I am confident that during these days of shock and grief, music will be a source of solace for her.
Another friend told me how much music ministered to her following the death of her son.
I, also, have experienced how music is a source of comfort and peace during difficult seasons of life.
Music is Present in Nature
The cacophony of cicadas on a summer night, wind whistling through the trees, a rushing river, the crash of ocean waves, and the ask and answer of birdsong are all examples of the music of nature. God created a world full of color, variety, and music for us to enjoy. If you ever doubt the love of the Father, listen to the music of nature.
Music Soothes Your Soul
Often, music is the only thing that sinks into your heart and soothes a troubled soul. Music has the ability to wash over us like cool water on a hot summer day and brighten even the most downcast mood. Music inspires, refreshes, and instills a desire for forward motion.
Music is a gift from God, created not only to praise Him, but to bring peace and hope.
As you celebrate Christmas, cherish and enjoy the gift of music.
“Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him”(Psalm 147:1 NIV)!
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is a writer, blogger, speaker, and freelance editor. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotionals published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
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