Music, a powerful tool in the well-being of a church worker, has a rich historical context
It was instrumental in the liberation of God’s people from Egypt, as they sang a song of praise in their exhaustion, experiencing great joy. The Psalms are filled with songs of praise for God in both good and difficult times. The Apostle Paul, in Colossians 3:16, encourages us to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in our hearts to God.
With this as our backdrop, let’s explore three ways music can improve your well-being.
Music brings us into God’s presence
When our mouths are filled with praise for God, He is present, and His presence changes things. Luther clearly understood this. For Luther, who sometimes struggled with melancholy, music was a gateway into the presence of God. He placed music second to theology. He wrote, “Next to the Word of God, music deserves the highest praise. The gift of language combined with the gift of song was given to man that he should proclaim the Word of God through music.”
Music strengthens our faith and knowledge of God
Lutheran hymns became increasingly meaningful to me as I matured. It wasn’t just the often-majestic tunes but the inspiring words that told a story of the love of Jesus or His grace and forgiveness. Hymns, built on a solid biblical and theological foundation, tell a story. They share the truth.
Hymns reflect our confession of faith, remind us of God’s promises in Jesus, and can lift our spirits as we learn Scriptural truths. Luther said, “My heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary.” Consider the joy a shut-in may experience when a familiar hymn is shared. It touches both the head and the heart.
Music evokes emotional well-being
A recent article in AARP magazine by John Colapinto shared how music has a transformative nature. He writes, “Recent scientific studies have shown that music’s power over us is not purely psychological but based in measurable physiological changes.” He states how music can build unity and security, feelings of spiritual awe and even alleviate chronic pain or the debilitating sense of anxiety. Music therapy has helped many patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
He writes, “By stimulating the brain’s memory network, music can trigger memories that were thought to be lost forever.” Certain music, no matter the genre, can trigger pleasant recollections, transporting us to joyful times and inspiring hope and wellness in the present.
How much truer this is when the music conveys the eternal truths about Jesus and His love.
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