Melodic Mondays
Those of you who know me know that I love music even though I am not musical myself. I listen to good music as often as I can. It is beneficial to the brain, valuable to the vocabulary, and strengthening to the soul. Isaiah 12:2-3 is a lovely passage that includes this soaring statement of surety: “The Lord JEHOVA [YAHWEH] is my strength and my song.” This could be translated, “God is my mountaintop and my music.” Yes, He is! Each Monday, I want to study this subject and suggest a song to listen to. Anyone reading this devotional has easy access to any song. (I am an exception because I do not go on a computer or other information device.) If you do not like my suggestion (and we all have different tastes), you can think of or search for one that speaks to you. Then, it can become a source of encouragement throughout the week.
I like songs that speak spiritual truth in a down-to-earth manner. One such song is Iris DeMent’s “Mama’s Opry.” It is a heartfelt remembrance of her mother’s faith and influence. Honoring our mothers is Biblical (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:2). Likewise, thinking about good things is Scriptural. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” DeMent’s song incorporates precious memories and lines from old Gospel songs that her mother enjoyed and sang frequently. It is a tribute to one woman’s fervent faith, and the unique Delta voice of DeMent is filled with genuine affection as she thinks about her mom.