Two items for going deeper. The second one is POWERFUL!!!
#1 - I did a bit of research on what Mary's song would have sounded like and I had to let it go for the sake of time before coming to any conclusions or really getting much understanding. I went with New Testament scholar N.T. Wright's description. But here are a couple of sites that you can explore. One includes what might be the earliest document of a Christian song that includes notes. You can even hear a rendition at one of these sites.
- Go here for a quick introduction
- Go here for the song performed.
- Go here for a quick introduction to one scholar's work on ancient Jewish and Christian music.
#2 - One of the themes I did not address in Luke 1:39-80 this weekend is the value of life in the womb. John the Baptist is filled with the Holy Spirit from conception and leaps for joy in Elizabeth's womb. The word describing John in the womb and the word for the baby Jesus are identical. Mark Driscoll deals with this topic in a powerful way in a message he did on Luke 1:39-45. Start at 10:22 into the message and it finishes at 37:19 into the message. You have to stick with him. There's a emotionally powerful twist well into his "diatribe" on abortion. You might be tempted to quit before you get there. Don't! In fact, please don't start listening unless you are willing to finish it no matter what. I wish all the parents at Five Oaks would play this for their pre-teen and teenage children.
How difficult it must be to be a pastor/prophet- who is given a word by God and the word is STRONG, uncomfortable, an word not want many want to here, counter-culture, and viewed politically incorrect and offensive too many. It reminds me of the many old and new testament prophets who were given a strong word by God for the people- they risked their very own lives delivering their messages. I commend you and all the pastors, leaders, shepherds of God's army today who stand for God- who follow the prompting of Holy Spirit to deliver a word of rebuke and correction to their people in the clear context of LOVE for them! We can't serve the Author of Life in one moment then grab the pen out of his hand in the next moment and sign the consent form to end the life of a child in the womb.
How truly great a God we serve- that he loved us so much that instead of judging us for our mistakes and sins- He said and still says- "I'll pay for your crime and DIE for YOU! I love you so much that I'll take your place!" Thank you for having the guts to share this message Pastor Henry! The message of truth is life-giving!
Posted by: Rosie Schlicht | December 05, 2011 at 07:21 AM