For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

“Ask your neighbor what their favorite Christmas song is,” instructed the worship leader this past Sunday during our greeting time. I turned to the gentleman behind me and asked him. He thought for a moment and said, “Handel’s Messiah.” 

Of course, I thought! This beautiful work composed by Handel in the 18th century combines theological depth, musical beauty, and emotional richness as it tells the story of our redemption through Christ, the Messiah. Orchestras and choirs have performed this magnificent and complex piece of music around the world for hundreds of years. 

However, “Messiah” is such an amazing work of art that its performance shouldn’t be left to the professionals alone! In fact, in the 1960’s, ordinary folks began to gather for “Messiah” Sings. Yes, there were some “real” singers in the mix – but there were also “ordinary” singers, everyday people who were invited to the performance of a great work of art. Unlike a traditional choral concert where the singers are on the stage and the audience sits and listens, here the audience participates. The audience is the chorus. 

I remember my first “Messiah” Sing. It was more than thirty years ago. It was a snowy, December evening in Boston. As we walked to the church, my friend explained to me what to expect. She reminded me that typically a choir is divided by vocal range: soprano, alto, etc. But at a “Messiah” Sing you are not divided by how your voice sounds, choral experience, or musical background. You are welcome to come as you are and join in with those around you. 

The musical score would unify us. The pages of music would be our guide through the dramatic telling of the story. The unfolding story of Redemption. 

As we found our seats, I was a bit nervous. I was inexperienced and did not have a musical score. Nor could I read musical notes, even if I did! 

Nonetheless, I trusted my friend. She got me a copy of the music and she guided me along throughout the evening. She helped me find my place when I got lost. I observed the more seasoned people around me. I watched when they turned the page, or when they would take a breath. I followed the conductor’s cues, as well. 

Not unlike showing up to sing without a musical score, I attended my first Bible study without a Bible. The ladies around me offered me one of theirs. They showed me how to find my way around the Book, and how to find my place in it. 

Just as a “Messiah” Sing is not done alone, so goes our Christian walk. We need people to guide us, disciple us, and show us how to find our way when we get lost. When we do, we become a symphony of sojourners eagerly singing of the Hope of the One born at Christmas. 

Mighty God and Everlasting Father, Your plan of redemption has been unfolding since before time began. You have given us each a part to sing. You invite all to come and join with the beautiful chorus of the faithful who have gone before us. As we all wait in great anticipation when we will all stand and sing together in Your Presence, “Hallelujah!”