Colossians 3:16: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly … and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.

I grew up singing in Church—in children's choirs, in youth choirs, in the pews on Sunday mornings (and Sunday evenings and on Wednesday nights). I have the words to hundreds, if not thousands, of songs in my head. Some songs I haven't heard or sung in years can come back to me in surprising detail when I'm reminded of the texts or hear the tunes. This is how the word of Christ dwells in me best, and I feel called to express my gratitude to God through music.

The music at First Presbyterian Church, regardless of the style, is inspiring, theologically sound, and offered, I believe, in the spirit of gratitude expressed in Colossians 3:16. It is carefully planned, rehearsed, and executed, not with the intention of executing a great performance, although we always try to do our best, but to enhance our worship experience and draw us closer to God and to one another. So whether you like classic hymns, contemporary praise, choral works from the great classical composers, spirituals, anthems old or new, stirring organ preludes and postludes, and on special occasions, orchestra and brass, or all of the above, there is something for everyone.

I am grateful for Holt and Marcia Andrews, and the Music, Worship, and Morning Song Committees for their outstanding leadership, and to all the fine musicians who help us all experience the power of music to enhance our worship of God.

The Chancel Choir is currently working on one of those old anthems. The text beautifully expresses this notion of carrying the word of Christ within ourselves: "O let my mouth be filled with Thy praise, that I may sing of Thy glory all the day long."

About the Contributor

Reel is married to Juli Robertson and they have three children. He has been a member of FPC and the Chancel Choir for 20 years. He is also a member of the First Presbyterian Chamber Singers.