The Messenger - March 24, 2010 The Sound of Peace

First Presbyterian Church of San Pedro

March 24, 2010

The Messenger

Pastor's Corner

The Sound of Peace

I don't know about you, but I've heard enough shouting lately. I've heard shouting from friends and relatives who hate the President's health plan and shouting from other folks who love it. I've heard shouting from those who say that lower tax revenues "rob" our school children, and shouting from those who think we pay too much tax already. I've also heard impassioned remarks about cell towers and suggestions to change some part of our sanctuary.

In fairness, I need to say that most folks who speak with me do NOT shout. Most are very courteous, and some bring amazing insight with their words. I love folks like that. But sometimes, one or two screamers can start a headache that lasts all day. Thus, I'm really grateful that God moved Allan Petker to select the gentlest, peaceful, and restorative Requiem for Palm Sunday that I have heard in years.

Most of you know that we have a long tradition of great music on Palm Sunday here at First Presbyterian Church. The content has varied tremendously from choral "masses" to medieval poems to stirring versions of great psalms. The sound has varied tremendously as well from wild exotic rhythms to brilliant, brassy sounds to lush orchestral strings. But this year, more than ever, we need the sound of solace, and we need the sound of peace.

That's what this Sunday's music is about. Three of the five movements in Mack Wilberg's Requiem are based on ancient prayers, one is based upon a psalm, and one is based upon the unforgettable words of Christ: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live. And he who lives and believes in me shall never die."

After over two years of recession in the United State, our economy is still creaking, unemployment is still high, and at least 1/4 of mortgage holders owe more than their home is worth. It's no wonder some folks are shouting and no wonder they are upset. But even in these times--especially in these times--we may find hope. That's because we follow Him who said "come to me, all ye who are weak and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

I may not know exactly what churns your spirit in this controversial time, but I know this Sunday morning's music holds many opportunities to reclaim God's rest. Thus, I hope you can attend, and I hope that you might bring at least one other person who needs to hear the sound of peace.

Have a great week!