Music as a Witness- Jubal

21His brother’s name was Jubal; he was the father of all who play stringed instruments and pipes. (Genesis 4:21)

Thoughts: Jubal was the first musician, the first music teacher, the first conductor and writer of music.  Someone had to begin it.  Music can be played outside of worship.  But worship is truly enriched with good music.  It is, as Luther said, "a fair and glorious gift of God taking its place next to theology in importance."   Whether Jubal intended his music as a witness for and to God we do not know.  Paul said, however, that we are to "make music to the Lord with your hearts" (Eph. 5:19).  The Psalmists call us to make music to the Lord (27:6; 33:2; 92:1; 98:5; 101:1; 133:3; 147:7).  Sometimes people provide gifts or tools for us that we may use to witness for God whether they themselves intended to witness to God or not.  Yet every good gift is from above, and gifts should reflect back to the One who gave them.  So music should reflect back to the giver of music.  As Back put on all his pieces: "Soli Deo  Gloria."  When this is done rightly- it is truly a great witness to God. 

Prayer: My my heart praise you, and may my mouth and music praise your Holy Name, O Lord.