Music Service: To the Glory of God

The lyrics of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” were taken from the Book of Revelation, specifically Revelation 11:15, 19:6, and 19:16. This book was written during a time of intense persecution for early Christians, who faced suffering not for any crimes or rebellions, but simply for their faith in Jesus. Revelation serves as a source of comfort and hope for those enduring hardship, reminding them that the kingdoms of this world will not reign forever.

You have heard the story of Daniel in the Old Testament. He lived through the reigns of powerful kings like Nebuchadnezzar, Darius, and Cyrus. The message from Daniel’s life is clear: worldly kingdoms rise and fall, but God’s kingdom, exemplified by Daniel’s unwavering faith, endures forever. This isn’t just about Daniel’s age of living; it’s a profound affirmation that ultimately, God’s kingdom will prevail.

In Revelation 11:15, we read, “Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet…” This moment is one of anticipation, as people await a pronouncement of judgment. Yet, instead of judgment, they hear the angelic choir proclaiming, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.” Here, the expected judgment is replaced by the beauty of music. This is a reminder that Christianity is a religion of singing instead of vengeance.

In our human experience, responding to devastation with singing can seem unimaginable. After a tragedy, we may be driven to seek justice. However, the beauty of singing lies in its call to surrender all the execution of justice into God’s hands. The “Hallelujah Chorus” reflects a profound political truth: the visible kingdoms of the world have become the kingdom of our Lord. This transition is celebrated not through political marching or processions, but through song—a testament to the arrival of God’s kingdom.

While the world often revels in political might, as Christians, we are called to seek a different kind of power—the power of obedience to God. This is reflected in the Lord’s Prayer, where we ask for God’s kingdom to come and His will to be done. True power, then, lies in our ability to submit ourselves to the divine will, a beauty that often eludes worldly understanding.

This theme is embodied in the life of Jesus. As the incarnate God, He possessed equal power with the Father yet chose to become a servant and a blessing for all human beings. His example teaches us that true power is found in serving God the Father and fellow human beings. The question is, are we drawn to this kind of power? (G.N.S.)