Music from the heart

Louise and I had the privilege last night of attending the Craig Jessop directed American Festival Chorus and Orchestra that featured the choral music of Mack Wilberg (current director of the Tabernacle Choir). It was a delightful experience that featured LDS hymns, Wilberg original compositions, music from past Tabernacle Choir performances, three Christmas carols (they fit in beautifully), the song Homeward Bound, and some American folk hymns ending with Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing. Brother Wilberg directed the last four songs. It was a delightful experience to listen to and feel the music that was sung and played by so many talented people. Three from our ward participated -- two women singers and Lynn Thomas, whom I home teach, played the organ.

I have always found it intriguing how when certain notes are played or sung, a chord of familiarity deep within my chest is touched and an upwelling occurs within me that often leaves tears coursing down my cheeks. I am not sure what triggers that feeling or what that relationship is between certain cords of music and my (or our) spirit, but the feeling is certain and very real.

During the performance of The First Noel, I felt that familiar swelling in my chest when I heard these words:

They (the shepherds) looked up and saw a star

Shining in the East beyond them far

And to the earth it gave great light

And so it continued both day and night

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel

Born is the King of Israel

My view of the scene of the birth quickly moved to Christ as an adult teaching the people and performing miracles then it moved to Gethsemane, then Golgotha, and then the Saviour arising that glorious Easter morning.

The Light is still shining on the earth -- both day and night. He is there for you and for me as we take our steps and have our experiences in this mortal world. He will lift us, He will guide us as we open our eyes and our hearts to the King of Israel.