Foreword by Albert Blackwell
(compiled by Jessica Miller Kelley)
Westminster John Knox Press, Louisville, Ky. 173 pages
The tone of this collection of essays is set by a marvelous quote from Basil of the fourth century, “What did the Holy Spirit do, seeing that the human race was not easily led to virtue?” He answers, “The Spirit mixed doctrine with gladdening song, so that when hearing its agreeable and attractive eloquence we might unwittingly learn things beneficial.” Unwittingly, or more likely not, the reader of this book with its 40 reflections on the Scriptures found in Handel’s Messiah will be edified. Remarkably, the entire libretto is covered with the texts from the New Revised Standard Version. Each section is followed by commentary from essays originally written for “Feasting on the Word.” Handel’s Messiah is for many the music of Advent and Christmas.
The value of this book is that both the music and the biblical texts will be enriched by the theological and biblical commentary within. Here one can find help for teaching and preaching as well as personal devotion. There are those who find the liturgical seasons of the year like Advent and Lent to be particular occasions to engage in focused prayer practices. The 40 reflections of this book will be a great aid to enter more deeply into the Advent and Christmas seasons.
