Exodus 15: They Sang a Song.
Every enduring community creates stories that explain such things as how it began, who belongs, how it differs from other communities, and why it exists. Stories are part of the “glue” that holds the group together. They help change a collection of individuals into a community.
When the Children of Israel left Egypt, they needed new stories that would explain who they were now that they were no longer Egyptian slaves. They needed to understand God’s role in forming them into this new community. And the story needed to be clear, easily remembered, and not easily distorted. So Exodus 15 records that they sang a new song.
Music — poetry, rhythm, and melody — has a “sticky” quality to it. We remember songs more easily than we do prose. That is part of why the music in the church is so important. Not only do hymns and praise songs help us express our worship, they help us learn the and remember the stories of our faith. They also come to mind when we need those stories the most — both in darkness and in joy. They remind of us of why our community exists –of salvation’s story and of who God is.
But to make sure that these songs become part of you, it’s really important to sing them, not just listen. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have a great voice or you sing off-key. Sing quietly if it helps, but sing! Let the music soak in. Let the story have a chance to “stick.” Let the music help you be a part of the community.
Prayer:
Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart.
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.