Music That Touches the Heart

 

If I had to describe my music preferences in one word it would be eclectic. The Oxford dictionary defines eclectic as: deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources. I probably have a different style for relaxing, meditating, worship, working, fishing, and even grading papers. Sometimes they have lyrics; other times I need only instrumental. I especially love movie soundtrack, even if I have never watched the movie. Music can paint pictures, bring back old dusty memories or even put us in the mood to dream.

Yet one person’s music is another person’s noise. My wife and I don’t always agree on what we find relaxing or entertaining. I enjoy classical music, Motzart and Bach especially, for the complexity and patterns that play out. She often finds it harsh or grating. My son loves country music. I can only stand to listen to it for about 30 minutes without it affecting my mood. Yet we both can listen to good bluegrass, especially banjo for hours.

My criteria for choosing music has evolved dramatically over the years. I used to have a long set of rules. Now it has been pared down to a choice few.

1. Is it scriptural? I think this one explains itself

2. Does it bother someone around me? In this day of wireless headphones, sharing should be a thing of the past, but alas, it still can be a problem. Please be considerate, especial in cars!

3. Does it bring be closer to a worshipful spirit toward God? This applies to both worship and what some call “secular” music. Does it lift my spirit? Does it cause me to be a nicer person?

I guess I’m getting “more mature”. (Older is not in my vocabulary.)  Sometimes the simplest melody can bring me to tears. I cry at happy endings. I have begun to cherish simple, organic worship over the larger productions. One of my favorites has begun to be older (let’s be real, ancient) hymns with a new melody or instrument style. I leave you with one of my favorites.

Here is the link for How Deep the Father's Love (Official Music Video) | Celtic Worship on Youtube. I hope you like it as much as I do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfhRs5g5t8M