The original German text for “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” was written by Joachim Neander (1650-1680). He based this text on Psalm 103 and Psalm 150. Born in Breman, Germany, Neander penned about sixty hymn texts and composed numerous tunes. Most of his lyrics were declarations of praise to God. Neander came from a long lineage of … Continued
Two of the worship songs in Greystone’s August 2, 2020, online worship service were written and composed by longtime Greystone member, Pepper Choplin. The first of these is “The Greatest Commandment.” Published in 2013, this anthem is based upon Mark 12:30-31, which contains Jesus’ response to the scribe’s question, “Which commandment is the first of all?” … Continued
This Sunday we explored the story of four friends who brought their friend to see Jesus. They had to overcome so many obstacles to help their friend. This was no easy task. You can read the story in Mark 2:1-12. Showing compassion often involves a bit of courage. We might think we only need to … Continued
One of the worship songs in Greystone’s July 26 online worship service, “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior,” may not be familiar to some hearers. However, this text was penned by a very well-known writer of Christian songs, Fanny Jane Crosby (1820-1915). Ms. Crosby is regarded as one of America’s most important gospel song lyricists. “All the Way … Continued
Many years ago I worked at a summer camp for a church in Atlanta. As a part of my job, I was in charge of daily chapel services for our campers. Somewhere along the way, I decided to let the campers lead these services every Thursday. Each week I chose a different camper group to lead … Continued
This week I came across an essay written by Richard Rohr. He began with: The word change normally refers to new beginnings. But the mystery of transformation more often happens not when something new begins, but when something old falls apart. The pain of something old falling apart—chaos—invites the soul to listen at a deeper level, and sometimes forces … Continued
Our postlude for this Sunday’s online worship service is an arrangement for organ entitled “Variants on ‘ST. ANNE.’” ST. ANNE is the tune, or melody, name that we use to sing the hymn “O God, Our Help in Ages Past.” The composer of this tune is presumed to be William Croft. However, the first time it appeared … Continued
This weekend I took a break courtesy of Disney+. I spent HOURS watching (and rewatching) Hamilton. I was captured by the bravado of four friends ready to change the world, by Eliza’s heartbreaking journey of forgiveness and by the comedy of King George III. I was awed by the creative genius of Lin-Manuel Miranda and was carried … Continued
just to be alive on this fresh morning in this broken world. I beg of you, do not walk by without pausing to attend to this rather ridiculous performance. It could mean something. It could mean everything. It could be what Rilke meant, when he wrote: You must change your life. from Devotions by Mary … Continued
17 While all Israel were crossing over on dry ground, the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, until the entire nation finished crossing over the Jordan.Joshua 3:17, NRSV “Deep River” is an African-American spiritual whose words are simple. They speak of home, of … Continued