Because I grew up in a pastor’s home, I was in church often. Morning and evening services on Sundays, Wednesday night services. Often my father concluded the morning service with this blessing found in the Old Testament:

“The Lord bless you and keep you;
25 The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
26 The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26 NKJV). 

Hearing those words, then and now gives me peace and assurance. It has been with me when I didn’t know where to turn. When I was lonely and afraid. When I felt my marriage was shattered and wouldn’t recover. When I heard the words, “He’s gone.”

Singing has always given me peace and comfort no matter what my situation is. I loved singing in a large choir in high school. Our director, Mr. Peru, expected the best from us and he got it. Not because he was harsh in his expectations, but kind. We just wanted to please him. We sang many classics, including anthems from the church. I’m not sure if we sang the song I’m going to share with you today, but I pray it blesses you and gives you peace as it did for me today and many other times.

Last week I told you my brother had died. His memorial service is this coming Monday. I want to tell you more about him, but I’m going to wait until next time after my final goodbye.

11 Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you (2 Corinthians 13:11 NLT).

Another passage that has given me great comfort comes from the last book of the Bible. May you be comforted by the words as I have been now and in the past:

 

I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them.4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever” (Revelation 21: 3-4 NLT).

Enjoy the classic hymn written for a choir or small ensemble. Let the words sink into your soul. Notice this large choir has people of all ages. Perhaps to give us a glimpse of heaven? All creation one day will worship the Lord in chorus.

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