Sunday Afternoon Music Videos: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted

If I had to choose just one book from the Old Testament to hold onto, it would, without a doubt be the psalms. But if I were allowed to chose a second, Isaiah would be it. And if I were forced to choose a single chapter? Isaiah 40 - comfort, ringing joy, hope, promise and challenge all wrapped into less than a thousand words.

"Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem..." gently opened the readings today. But it is not enough that we have been rescued, we are called to take up the mantle of the prophets. "A voice cries out: In the desert prepare the way of the LORD! Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God! Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill shall be made low..."

I enjoyed this version of Handel's joyous rendition, the way in which the soloist roughens "rough" and most especially Trevor Pinnock's merry direction at the very end. The music begins at 50seconds if you want to skip the lecture...

What music moved you today? Was it a moment for the old favorites, or did you (as my congregation did) try something new? Share in the comments and maybe we'll all discover something new!