13
Jun '24
June 14, 2024
13
Jun '24
Thank you for hanging with me on this journey through Paul Simon’s “Seven Psalms.” I encourage you to give it a close listen sometime when you have a half hour to soak it it in. While I love our worship music, I have always been intrigued and inspired by mainstream artists who are not afraid to explore matters of faith in nontraditional ways. God doesn’t limit his voice to the sacred, but allows it to be heard in everyday music if you listen closely. In the song, “Sacred Harp,” two travelers pick up two hitchhikers and ask them where they are going. The women answers enigmatically:
The sacred harp
That David played to make his songs of praise
We long to hear those strings
That set his heart ablaze
Their destination is wherever music brings peace and healing, passion and hope. This is an apt summation of Paul Simon’s life. Seeking this sound has not led him to write one genuine worship hymn. But it has inspired him to write songs that have blessed and inspired, encouraged and united. This summer, let us also “long to hear those strings that sets his heart ablaze.”
Pastor Andy