By Jordann McMahan
What songs stick in your memory from childhood?
This morning, we will sing “Standing on the Promises,” a hymn that instantly starts playing in my head as a dear reminder of my early years. I remember distinct hand and body movements, especially the way my children’s choir would play a game in which we would trade off sitting and standing as the refrain came along. We giggled like it was the funniest thing we had ever done.
Decades later, much has changed from my childhood faith. And yet, the memory of this song and the giggles are forever intertwined. A familiar tune can transport us back to a specific place, a specific feeling or even a specific version of ourselves.
I read the words of this hymn differently these days. In times of great stress and anxiety, in moments of fear and shame, on days when the world around me frustrates and concerns me, the promises of God have often shown through. God’s love, presence and peace have sustained me. I continue to find comfort in the idea that God remains faithful even when life feels uncertain. The promises of God have deepened through different seasons of life, shaped by years of experience, questions and growth.
What promises of God have stood by you throughout your life?
I recently rewatched the Disney movie Coco and was once again brought to tears at the conclusion. Memory and music are closely intertwined, and memories connected to music often remain vivid long after other memories begin to fade.
As we prepare our hearts for worship, I invite you to reflect on the songs that have shaped your faith journey. Perhaps there is a hymn, chorus or song that immediately brings to mind a cherished memory or a season when you felt especially close to God. As we sing together, may the music remind us not only of where we have been, but also of God’s faithfulness in the present moment. Let the words and melodies open our hearts to God’s presence among us, and may we come ready to experience once again the love of God and give thanks for the promises that have sustained us throughout our lives.