Sometimes, days seem to last forever. Sometimes, things don’t come together like I think they should. Sometimes, I let myself get beaten down by people who criticize what I do. Sometimes, I get lost in the bulletins, the extra rehearsals, the folders of music, and the long staff meetings. Sometimes, I’m not very good at showing grace.

The choir is diligently working on a gorgeous arrangement (Jay Rouse, for all you choir directors out there) of one of my most favorite Christmas hymns – “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” (listen here).  Although we spent rehearsal worrying over notes, struggling with the 6/4 meter, and dealing with quick page turns, I was reminded of the power behind these words and the reason for which we are singing when I re-read the text:

Of the Father’s love begotten,
Ere the worlds began to be,
He is Alpha and Omega,
He the source, the ending he;
Of the things that are, that have been,
And that future years shall see,
Evermore and evermore!

Before the world began, He was.  He knows my past, my present, and my future.  He is the source of life.

O ye heights of heaven adore him;
Angel hosts, his praises sing;
Powers, dominions, bow before him,
And extol our God and King;
Let no tongue on earth be silent,
Every voice in concert ring,
Evermore and evermore!

What else can we do but sing His praises?  Let no tongue on earth be silent… let every voice sing out!

Christ, to thee with God the Father,
And, O Holy Ghost, to thee,
Hymns and chant and high thanksgiving,
And unwearied praises be;
Honor, glory, and dominion,
And eternal victory,
Evermore and evermore!

As much as I try to change my expectations . . . people still disappoint me.
As much as I try to be prepared at all times . . . I will never know exactly what the future holds.
As much as I try to hold back . . . I still find myself saying the wrong things at the wrong time.
As much as I try to be professional in what I do . . . people will still find reason to criticize me.

And yet, we are called to let our praises be unwearied amidst our weariness.  To Him be honor, glory, dominion, and eternal victory – victory over the things I say, victory over the actions I take, victory over the people who try to discourage me, victory over me.

What an overwhelming sense of peace this brings to my heart tonight as I write.  Wishing you this type of peace this season.

Image Credit: personal