By Mark Heiskanen
Songs of service, humility and love this Third Sunday in Lent.
From the organ, two characteristic works from the 19th century will be shared.
First, the tranquil “Adagio” from Organ Sonata No. 1 by Felix Mendelssohn serves as a moment of centering and prayer as you prepare for worship. Composed in 1845, just two years before his death, the six sonatas for organ by the composer have been considered the first substantial works conceived for the instrument since Bach at the time. The affect of serenity pervades this beautiful moment of brevity. And lastly, “Choral Song” by Samuel Sebastian Wesley provides a cheerful conclusion to worship as you exit the sanctuary. The work is the first half of “Choral Song and Fugue” from the composer’s collection of “Three Pieces for Chamber Organ.” The composer is also the grandson of Charles Wesley, prolific hymn writer and of course a leading figure in the founding of the Methodist Church.
Two choral works will be offered representing the message of serving others as shared in Sunday’s reading from the Gospel of Mark.
The Chancel Choir sings “Let Me Be Your Servant” by Stan Pethel. The anthem is an ode to the humble character of a faithful Christian — who we are called to be. In addition to the original text by the composer, an excerpt from the 19th century hymn of stewardship “Take My Life and Let It Be” is also referenced in this lilting expressive work. “Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to thee. Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of Thy love.”
The Quadrilateral Quartet offers another depiction of the servant spirit during the Offertory in “A Servant Heart, A Servant Song” by Charles McCartha. The text embraces the notion of a “quiet joy” in praising God through music and sharing the spirit of Christ with the world. “A servant heart, a servant song: with both we please our Lord…with hearts and voices may we sing with pure humility. In our songs and deeds let others see God’s instruments of peace.”