So it was my birthday this past Friday, and on Thursday night, I was given a pre-birthday treat by being able to rehearse one of my favorite songs, PSALM 148. I suppose that's sort of a boring, cop-out title, and to the outside, unfamiliar observer who saw that printed on a concert program, he or she might be inclined to just pass it over with little thought. Rest assured, however, that the ordinary title is deceptive. It's a very grand song, with layer upon layer speaking of praising God and all of His grand creations--and which has a dramatic ending that sends tingly shivers throughout your very soul. At least, it does for me!
I had a good friend listen to the YouTube video of it (hopefully with the volume way up) and he had this great insight to share:
"The resolution of the last chord is a hundred times more satisfying because of the discord and dissonance immediately preceding. It feels like a perfect example of opposites in all things. It also feels like an analogy of the last days in which we are living. I keep waiting and hoping for that final chord that resolves everything."
Excellent observations and insights Tom. The ending chord is my absolute favorite, especially singing it in the Tabernacle where it just reverberates after our voices stop singing. But like you said, I think it's such a great chord because of what comes before it. It's almost like the dissonance is analogous to our desperate efforts to get rid of those last little things keeping us from becoming like God. And then, almost before we realize it, we've done it! And what's great, too, is that as that last chord is sung, the orchestra and organ completely cut out, and we're left with just hundreds of voicing singing in unity and purity--all thanks to our Savior Jesus Christ and His plan to help us all reach our eternal potential.
Sigh....
So good, so good.
Until next time, God be with you.
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