THIS WEEK IN WORSHIP

THIS WEEK IN WORSHIP
Most of us are aware of the monumental work for orchestra, chorus, and soloists, Messiah, by Handel. Probably the most famous movement in Messiah is the “Hallelujah Chorus.” If you’ve attended or performed in Messiah, you know that as soon as the opening chords of the “Hallelujah Chorus” begin to sound, the entire audience rises. To me, this is a miracle every time I experience it. Yes, I know that this tradition was said to have begun with King George II, who supposedly rose to his feet and remained standing when this work was first performed in London in 1743. But the fact is that we still do it! We all stand! I’ve sung in and heard plenty of performances of this work, sometimes in secular venues, and still, everyone stands. Each time, I think of Revelation 5 where millions and millions surround the throne of God saying in a loud voice,
“The Lamb who was slain is worthy to receive power, and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.”
   This coming Sunday’s sermon will focus on Revelation 5, on Jesus, the Lamb of God, both the suffering Lamb who exhibited unshakable, sacrificial love and, more importantly, the conquering Lamb who triumphed over the powers of death.  —Susan Dengler