I love music. I love to play, and I love to sing. I also love to listen. Most of the time there seems to be a song or music going through my mind. There are times when the words of a hymn will seem to well up from deep within me. Such can be powerful. It can be so moving. Sometimes when listening I even feel moved to join in.
Handel’s wonderful work, “The Messiah”, was written in 1741-1742 and was first performed in Dublin in 1742. When it was first performed in London (March 23, 1743), the king was present in the large audience. Upon reaching the movement of the “Hallelujah Chorus”, everyone was so deeply moved by the words “For the Lord God omnipotent reigneth” that everyone — including the king — sprang to their feet and remained standing through the entire chorus. Thus began a custom still followed today whenever that chorus is performed. The “King of kings, and Lord of lords” is to receive the chorus of praise. “HALLELUJAH!”
John recorded a heavenly scene in the Revelation where we read. . .
“(1) After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, . . . (4) And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who was seated on the throne, saying, “Amen. Hallelujah!” (5) And from the throne came a voice saying, “Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, small and great.” (6) Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. (7) Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready; (8) it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure” — for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.” (Revelation 19:1 & 4-8 ESV)
In view of our Lord Jesus Christ, are we moved to stand with Him and for Him in life? Knowing the forgiveness and cleansing from sin His blood has made possible, are we moved to praise Him with our words and life? Knowing the eternal hope He came to provide, are we compelled to stand strong regardless of the challenges we might face in this life? With our focus on the One Who is the Sovereign “King of kings and Lord of Lords” (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; 19:16), may our lives join in the chorus of being a living “HALLELUJAH” to the One Who gave Himself for us so that we can be forever with Him.
Have a great day BEING LIVING PRAISE TO THE KING AND LORD OF OUR LIFE!
Carl
