A Quick Bible Study Vol. 298: It’s ‘Messiah’ Time Again |
Author's Note: All previous volumes of this series are here. The first 56 volumes are compiled into the book "Bible Study For Those Who Don't Read The Bible." "Part Two," featuring volumes 57-113, was published in December 2022.
Thanks for taking part in today’s study. Regular readers know I sometimes add music links because I love music. Sometimes, I include a lively rock song not usually related to Bible studies to energize, entertain, and surprise.
My early musical tastes were influenced by listening to my parents’ record collection of popular 1960s Broadway show tunes. I clearly remember the soundtracks of The Sound of Music, South Pacific, and Fiddler on the Roof.
Classical music was also played at our home; my dad’s favorite was Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture,” with the boom-boom cannons. I also performed simple pieces by Beethoven and Mozart during my piano recitals.
Then, on February 9, 1964, I watched “four lads from Liverpool” perform on the Ed Sullivan Show, with 75 million Americans, and that culturally iconic musical event changed EVERYTHING for my generation. Afterwards, I asked my father’s opinion, who famously said, “Na, they are just a fad and won't last a month.” And so began my lifelong love of what is now called “classic rock.”
After Jesus entered my life at age 20, I discovered “Handel's Messiah.” The power of the Hallelujah Chorus especially stayed with me, and when cellphones began offering personalized ringtones, that became mine. Over the years, I have enjoyed watching people’s expressions as the Hallelujah Chorus fills public spaces, such as a checkout line or a small gathering. One time, I received a call during a Bible study, and we all agreed that it was a sign from God.
This week, while thinking about a topic for today’s study, “Messiah” came to mind. The last time I wrote about Handel’s masterpiece was Dec. 15, 2024 – Vol.........