When Music is a Means of Grace
“Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.” This is a quote from the seminal figure of the Protestant Reformation, the priest and theologian Martin Luther. He went on to say, “my heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary.”
That has often been my experience. It is true not just of hymns and songs of the church, but for other types of music as well—instrumental as well as vocal. Music is a universal language. Sometimes, it is the only expression that can make its way to the heart.
I have felt this very deeply at times. Once when I was experiencing a sense of abandonment, a pastor and friend sent me the words of “O Love that Wilt Not Let Me Go.” The actual words of this hymn were written by George Matheson, a 19th century Scottish pastor on a night when he was feeling a deep sadness. He had become blind by age seventeen. His sister had been his help and it was the night of her marriage. He said that this hymn was the result of that suffering and that it felt as though it was dictated to him by some inward voice. Just reading the words and “hearing” the tune in my head allowed me to shed tears of grief and at the same time be comforted with the knowledge of the eternal presence of God’s Spirit within me. Much later I discovered Keith and Kristyn Getty’s youtube with Dana Masters of the hymn. I keep this link on hand to play at times when I need to be reminded of God’s ever-present nearness.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vt1Us8Ryt_s
A friend recently texted me the link to another song in which she was finding hope for a seemingly hopeless situation. I have this on reserve list as well for those times either I or a friend need to be reminded and reassured of what we already know. This youtube is “Dear Refuge of My Weary Soul.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWUK-lWgLJg
Perhaps you have your own playlist built for the moments in your life when music is the language that reminds you that you are seen and loved and hope is certain.
