The Messiah

"For unto 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. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this." (Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV). 

The prophet Isaiah foretold the birth of Jesus and His life in the book of Isaiah. Much of his story is retold

to music in G.F. Handel's "The Messiah". It tells the life story of Jesus. My father sang with the annual production of "The Messiah" in Marshalltown for many years so the music is truly beloved by those who heard it year after year. I am one of those who loves the music and the story it tells. I have a CD of "The Messiah" and I sing along to myself the amazing music that is so familiar to me.

There are three parts to "The Messiah": Part I tells the story of Jesus' birth, Part II tells the story of the crucifixion, and Part III tells of Jesus' resurrection. It is an amazing work of art. It was written by Handel in 1741 in only 24 days and the oratorio was first performed on April 13, 1742, conducted by Handel himself. It is stunning that Handel could have composed this entire work in such a short period of time. He was truly inspired by God.

If you get the chance to hear "The Messiah" this Christmas season it will bless you in a special way. Christmas music of any kind sets the mood for the season.

Thank you, God, for giving us music to lift our spirits and to tell the stories of Christmas. Amen.