MOMENTS of MEDITATION

By Rev. Dr. Archie L. Edwards, Sr. HYMNS OF PRAISE

READ PSALM 149:1-9

Sing to the Lord a new song, and His praise in congregation of saints.” – Psalm 149:1

Music is one of those good things in life we take for granted. Yet, as is so often the case, sinful man has taken this good gift from God and used it to serve evil purposes. In our day we’re especially aware of its misuse, and the shameful behavior associated with it. But good music is a blessing from the Lord. It’s a soothing tonic for troubled hearts. It motivates us to live for Christ. And through it we lift our hearts in praise to the Lord. Without music, we would be greatly deprived.

An old Jewish legend says that after God had created the world He called the angels to Himself and asked them what they thought of it. One of them said, “The only thing lacking is the sound of the Creator.” So God created music, and it was heard in the whisper of the wind and in the song of the birds. He also gave man the gift of song. And throughout all the ages, music has blessed multitudes of people, yes we should be grateful for the gift of music. With a new appreciation for the expression music gives to our souls, let us join voices with fellow believers and lift our hearts in hymns of praise whenever we have the privilege. It’s honoring the Lord. It’s edifying to our brothers and sisters in Christ. And it brings us joy.

As you join with other Christians in singing today, do so with a renewed appreciation of music. Sing to the Lord a new song!

Bless the Lord and sing His praises

Bless the Lord now, O my soul; Join the song all heaven raises Let the anthem loudly roll! – Peterson

THOUGHT: No music so pleases God as the heartfelt singing of His Saints.

Rev. Dr. Archie L. Edwards, Sr., is an Associate Minister at Second Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk.

Black History of Fort Norfolk Is Topic For Norfolk Historical Society February Series

NORFOLK

The Norfolk Historical Society will host its February Louis Guy Lecture Series with a focus on Black History of Fort Norfolk.

Steven Forrest will present information that he has found based on over 25 years of research into the history of Fort Norfolk.

This event will take place on Feb. 8 at the MacArthur Memorial Theater in downtown Norfolk at 7 p.m. It is free and open to the public.

Fort Norfolk was built in 1794, and throughout its history, Blacks have been a