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 JEHOVAH [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.
In His mercy, Jesus withholds judgment on this evil world. However, He must ultimately deal with those who will not receive His grace. Modern Christian songs rarely touch on this Biblical truth, but previous generations of songwriters were made of stern stuff and wrote about every scriptural subject, including judgment. One such Gospel song is “Sign of Judgment” (sometimes incorrectly spelled “Judgement”) by Kid Prince Moore. His version is historically valuable and provides a glimpse into a traditional form of worship that is quite different from ours; some listeners might find it difficult to understand. Another traditional interpretation by the McIntosh County Shouters is easier to comprehend. My favorite rendition is by Dave Alvin, the gifted guitarist and distinctive vocalist. This song reminds us that Satan is a liar (John 8:44) and that judgment is certain unless our faith is in Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:10).