"Do You Remember..."
In 1978 a band from Chicago released a song that almost everyone knows and loves. This song is "September", by Earth, Wind, and Fire. The whole purpose of this catchy simple tune that will not allow you to be still, but makes even the most boring person want to "groove", was to make people feel happy and celebrate. When you dissect the song you see a brilliant collaboration that comes together. R&B, jazz, funk, Latin-flavored horns, even the impactfulness of "spirituals"combine to create what seems to be a flawless flowing timeless dance song that makes you love life. There is even a cowbell interwoven that keeps the steady beat and the rhythm going.
Music is powerful! It is a universal language. And it does make a difference. Music is an essential part of our Worship at FCC. Pastor Lee and our Praise Band beautifully and effectively lead us each week. And we appreciate and are so thankful for such a talented, giving, Church Family. And ultimately Music, especially in worship, is an individual act. David exemplifies this. In his many Psalms, he uses music to express joy and worship before our awesome God. Psalms 100, one of my favorites, tells us to "Make a JOYFUL noise unto the Lord - ALL ye lands (KJV). By singing, which may mean making a joyful noise, we are able to honor our Heavenly Father. You may be tone deaf, monotone, way off key, or off tempo - but in the ears of the Almighty, it is beautiful, perfect pitch, and pure joy. I love the New Living Translation of Psalm 100, a psalm of thanksgiving...
Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth!
Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us, and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
The Lord is good. And His love is unfailing, faithful, and forever! So, Remember, on this 21st day of September, to make a joyful noise to the Lord, praising and celebrating Life, from the Giver of Life - Creator of All good - Master and maker of our "music" - our Heavenly Father.
Speaking of Music, don't forget that Music in the Vale is in ONE WEEK - next Saturday, September 28. We really do need you. We still need donations and volunteers, so if possible, please fill up the sign-up sheets on Sunday. And by the way, you really do not want to miss MIV. It is unique to FCC and amazing. We will have a short informational meeting immediately after worship on Sunday.
Also, thank you for loving on and supporting Lori and Bill Leachman. They are so appreciative of the FCC family and the love and support they have felt through this ongoing journey. Many of you have and continue to show love and support - through your prayers, presence, calls, cards, meals and more. Lori, though cancer free, is not over this journey yet. There is a meal train if you want to get on board. And several have stepped up to accompany Lori to immunotherapy. Thank you. As your Pastor, and more importantly your friend and brother, I want to thank you for being who you are and for showing others what it means to be a real, healthy, loving Church - a Family. You do it so well!
One of the things that causes music to be beautiful, as well as for familie, and churches, to be loving, effective, and encouraging, is unity. Though we are all gifted in different ways, it is the unifying of these gifts that create the great harmony and beauty experienced by all. This Sunday we will begin looking at Paul's letter to the Church and Believers in Ephesus. The key theme of this letter is Unity in Christ. Perfect timing! I hope you will be able to join us! And I hope you will be able to join us next Saturday for Music in the Vale.
Always Remember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
"More in '24
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or text 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)