The Music This Week: October 18th, 2015

Sermon Topic:  “He cursed them in the name of the Lord. Then two she-bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys.” (2 Kings 2:24)

Prelude: The Last Rose of Summer – By Thomas Moore, Arr. By Jane Holburne
Fall is my favourite season by a long shot and this song reminds me of fall and the beauty of it. So this time of year brings "The Last Rose of Summer" into my head and I thought it might be appreciated because of St. Andrew's heritage. But why are we doing it in church? It's a secular song! Well, first of all, as far as I am concerned all music is sacred. Something so glorious and wonderful, whether or not one likes the style, is clearly a gift. Second of all, to me, any song that talks about nature and its beauty has an obvious place in church and relates very directly to hymns like "For the Beauty of the Earth" and "All Things Bright and Beautiful." Beyond that, I think the themes of loneliness and companionship reflect part of a Christian experience; finding companionship with God or with others in the church community.

Musical Reflection: You Shall Have a Song – Harriet Ziegenhals
I'm delighted that the women from the adult choir will be singing this little piece. I'm excited because it brings a little variety to what we hear each week. Obviously it's nice to sing with the men too, but an all-female ensemble has a distinct sound that is nice to hear once in a while. The text of the piece is a simple little poem about finding gladness and joy in God. It doesn't relate directly to the sermon, but I challenge you to find a piece about she-bears mauling children that anyone would want to sing.

Offertory: Schafe können sicher weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze) – J.S. Bach
When I was leafing through my books to find the prelude, offertory, and postlude for this week, I was struck by this piece. (The text is below for your referral, on Sunday it will either be played or sung) I find 2 Kings 2:24 to be rather disturbing. Violence towards children is not how I like to think of God. To me, Sheep May Safely Graze is one of the most comforting pieces and I hope that it can provide reassurance to us that God is a protector and cares for humankind

Sheep may safely graze and pasture
In a watchful Shepherd's sight.
Those who rule with wisdom guiding
Bring to hearts a peace abiding
Bless a land with joy made bright.

Postlude: What a Friend We Have in Jesus – By Charles C. Converse, Arr. By Robert Schultz
I chose this song for pretty much the same reasons that I chose Sheep May Safely Graze. I also felt that it would provide stylistic contrast from the other pieces.

Hope you find the music spiritually meaningful this week.