The Silent Choir: When Hearts Sing Amidst the Silence

In the heart of every congregation lies the power of music—a tool for proclaiming the Gospel that transcends the mere act of singing. Yet, over the past year, a profound silence has enveloped our churches. Vocal music, once a vibrant part of our worship, has been silenced. We are commanded by Scripture to "Sing to the Lord," yet we find ourselves bound by the constraints of our current reality, lamenting the word "Corona." This article delves into the spiritual significance of music, exploring its role in healing, faith, and the ongoing battle between good and evil.

The Command to Sing: A Divine Imperative

The Bible is clear: "Sing to the Lord!" This directive is not merely a suggestion but a command that echoes through the halls of faith. Yet, in the face of restrictions, we find ourselves unable to fulfill this call with our voices. The Apostle Paul offers us a solution: "Sing to God with gratitude in your hearts!" (Colossians 3:16). This silent singing, though invisible to the world, is heard by God. He perceives the movements of our hearts, our longing, and our suffering, and the Holy Spirit transforms our silent hymns into a celestial choir. However, the absence of communal singing leaves a void that cannot be fully filled by silent praise alone.

The Healing Power of Music: David and Saul

The Old Testament provides us with a profound example of music's healing power in the story of David and Saul. Saul, the first king of Israel, found himself estranged from God after disregarding His commands. This alienation led to a spiritual vacuum, filled by an evil spirit that tormented him. In his despair, Saul sought relief through music, and it was David, a young shepherd skilled with the lyre, who brought him solace. David's music not only alleviated Saul's suffering but also drove away the evil spirit that plagued him.

This narrative underscores a universal truth: music has a profound impact on the soul. When we are enveloped by sadness, we turn to soothing melodies; in moments of joy, we embrace lively tunes. Music provides a respite for the conscious mind, allowing heavy thoughts to dissipate and the soul to find peace. It communicates truths that words alone cannot convey, giving voice to the inexpressible.

Music as a Spiritual Weapon

Martin Luther recognized the profound spiritual significance of music, ranking it just below theology in importance. He described music as the most beautiful and glorious gift of God, a divine tool that opposes the devil and drives away temptations. Music, Luther believed, is the best comfort for the troubled soul, making individuals gentler, more humble, and more reasonable.

Sacred music, in particular, serves as a bridge between God and humanity. It is not merely an emotional experience but a force that affects the spiritual realm. The story of David and Saul illustrates how sacred music can dispel evil spirits and bring peace to a tormented soul. The mystic Hildegard of Bingen echoed this sentiment, asserting that only the devil knows no music, and he is certainly angered by our songs of praise to God.

The Silence in Our Churches: A Diabolical Attack?

The prohibition of singing in churches over the past year can be seen as an attack on the Lord's congregation. It is as if the devil himself seeks to alienate us from God by silencing our hymns. Yet, as we are unable to sing with our lips, we continue to sing gratefully to God in our hearts. The saying holds true: "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks." Our hearts compel us to sing to God's glory, even if our voices are silent.

Music serves not only as a means of worship but also as a form of protest against death and a declaration of faith in life. It is both a gift from God and a responsibility for humans. Throughout history, music has been integral to the Christian community, spreading the Reformation through song and defining evangelical worship.

The Role of Music in Proclamation

Music is a direct path to the innermost part of a person, acting as medicine for the soul. While it may not always address the root cause of our ailments, it helps us live with our struggles. David, who composed many of the Psalms, understood this well. His experience with Saul deepened his faith and reinforced his understanding of the consequences of losing the Holy Spirit.

Ultimately, whether music touches hearts and lifts them to God is the work of the Holy Spirit. In these times of crisis, when our voices are silenced, we must remember that music remains a powerful tool in our spiritual arsenal. Against the evil spirit, we set music that praises God, confident that it will drive away darkness and bring light to our souls.

Singing in Silence

As we navigate these challenging times, let us not forget the power of music in our spiritual lives. Though our voices may be silent, our hearts continue to sing. Let us embrace the silent choir within us, trusting that our gratitude and praise reach God. Let us hold fast to the hope that one day, we will once again raise our voices in communal song, proclaiming the Gospel through the beautiful gift of music.

In the meantime, let us sing silently, with hearts full of gratitude and faith, knowing that our silent hymns are heard and cherished by God. Let us stand firm against the forces that seek to silence us, using music as a weapon of faith and a beacon of hope.

Amen.

Sermon held on 05/02/2021