Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Advent Devotional…Handel’s Messiah, December 18

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"
(Luke 2:13-14)
 
The angel (soprano) concludes the message of good news for all people and suddenly the heavenly host (chorus) joins the song, proclaiming “Glory to God!”  After the announcement is made,” Roger Bullard writes, “we must immediately hear heaven and earth resounding with the good tidings.”
 
Handel initially wrote Messiah with a small choral presence in mind.  Thirty two singers plus soloists sang in its debut in Dublin, Ireland in 1742.  Over the years that chorus has expanded, in some cases to hundreds of voices in some public performances.  Indeed, the angel’s news calls any who will to join the chorus…yes, even you!
 
Prayer: With the angels we join in the chorus, Glory to God!  Thank you Lord for such wonderful news! Amen.
 

Jim Abernathy

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