Dearly beloved,

I’ve come to a recent realization – that though I participate in singing and music every Sunday – the rest of my week has been sorely lacking in that most precious of gifts. There was a time that I would listen to all kinds of music all the time (I have hundreds of CDs). Now most of the sound in my daily life is made up of news, television, tapping of my fingers on the keys as well as cats meowing. It has become rare that I will just put any kind of music on – even in the background (other than the gentle instrumental music that helps me sleep). And as much as I love singing in worship, I don’t do a great deal of singing on my own – this has not always been the case.

Music is such a wonderful gift that enriches our world and our lives. And so, I have decided to make a concerted effort to listen to more music and to sing on a daily basis. I remember one clergy retreat years ago when we sat around the piano and sang through most of the hymnal – so that is what I am going to do. There are over 700 hymns in our hymnal (actually 893 with the first 150 being the Psalms, the next 75+ alternate service music) plus there are supplemental hymnals. Since I don’t really read music (I learn by ear), I will admit I may not sing them all – but I will try.

Admittedly, right now most of our listening goes to all kinds of Christmas songs though we are still in Advent. Other than “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”, most Advent songs are not as familiar or popular. Yet they bring that message of anticipation and expectation that draws us towards Christmas.

One of these Advent hymns that I’m not as familiar with is “Unexpected and Mysterious” which is framed by Mary’s visit to her relative Elizabeth as they share the joy of their unexpected pregnancies. Listen to the song shared through the Lutheran World Federation (see below – this selection from 2020). You can also find other music from around the world in Advent Hymns for LWF over the past few years.

Unexpected and Mysterious – Canada
The opening lyrics invite us more fully into this time of watching, waiting and wonder

Unexpected and mysterious is the gentle word of grace
ever-loving and sustaining is the peace of God’s embrace
if we falter in our courage and we doubt what we have known
God is faithful to console us as a mother tends her own

May we find through the gift of music that which nurtures and sustains us in this time of preparation for the birth of the Christ child

peace in Christ,
Pastor Jen

When in our music God is glorified