By Mark Heiskanen
“In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree;
In cocoons, a hidden promise; butterflies will soon be free!
In the cold and snow of winter there’s a spring that waits to be,
unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.”
-from “Hymn of Promise” by Natalie Sleeth (1986)
This Sunday, we reflect upon the anticipation of life emerging from a winter’s chill in the continuing liturgical year sermon series. The “Ordinary Time” after The Epiphany through the start of Lent can serve as a time for spiritual growth, mirroring the natural world’s return to life after a long dark winter. A time to reflect on the Light that has entered the world through the Nativity. Songs of faith, perseverance and hopeful seasons this Sunday morning.
At the Prelude, a sprightly arrangement of the 16th century German hymn “Triune God, Be Our Stay” by Paul Manz welcomes you into worship. The original text was adapted by Martin Luther in 1524 and expresses the protective grace God offers us all as we run this race — in faith. During the time of communion, a moment of repose is offered with the sonorous tranquil strains of Franz Liszt’s “Adagio in Db.” And lastly, worship concludes with a jaunty “Postlude” by British composer William Mathias.
The Summer Choir will return singing the beloved anthem “Hymn of Promise” by Natalie Sleeth. Her words and music have resonated throughout the Christian world with its inclusion in many hymnals, including The United Methodist Hymnal (#707.) The text relates our spiritual evolution with the natural processes that exist in creation and how we can simply trust that small voice within to carry us forward.
Please consider joining us for this lovely anthem! The Summer Choir rehearses prior to the service at 8:45 a.m. All are welcome. You may sit in with us or just come up for the anthem during the service. It is up to you! The last Summer Choir offering of the season will be on Sunday, August 23. Hope to see you in the chancel!