Songs in the Night

In our times of travail, when life can seem overwhelming, our hearts and minds can be boosted and encouraged by the presence of song.  Music - especially songs of worship - can bring peace to our soul and draw us into the presence of God.  In Psalm 42, we can read these words:
5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation
6 and my God. My soul is cast down within me; therefore I remember you from the land of Jordan and of Hermon, from Mount Mizar.
7 Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls; all your breakers and your waves have gone over me.
8 By day the Lord commands his steadfast love, and at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life.

Verse 8 refers to God's song at night.  The book of Job refers to the Maker who brings us "songs in the night."

I came across an article recently at The Christian Heart website, which is a great source of encouraging stories.  It resonated with me, as a musician, as well as someone who presents music on Faith Radio.

The writer describes her association with a hospice organization, where she and a friend "were assigned to hospice patients in various nursing facilities in our county where we played our guitars and sang duets for each client, making every effort to find music to which each individual would joyfully respond."  She goes on to say: "Ironically, our very first assignment was a former neighbor of mine. It was such a pleasure and blessing to be able to minister to my dear friend in her final days; and it was a definite confirmation to me that this was indeed something God was calling me to."

She recounts being assigned to all the hospice patients in one facility in her home county. She had as many as 15 "clients," with a service range of days to years. She shares:

It is always very clear when I have found a song that sparks a memory or inspires their hearts. Even those who are unable to speak will smile, or maybe shed tears, or even tap their fingers to the beat. It is very rewarding to be able to reach that place deep in their souls with music when almost nothing else reaches them at this time of their lives.

She also mentioned how she will ask the hospice patients if she could pray for them.

What an amazing opportunity, during the twilight of a person's life, that music can be used to provide peace; as the writer says, "Understandably, many are fearful of death and 'passing on' from this life. It is truly a joy to provide some peace to their hearts as they make this final leg of their journey into eternity."

Perhaps there is an application for all of us.  When we face a dark night in our souls, we can be encouraged by the presence of the Lord.  He can bring encouragement and peace to us when we are facing difficulties - maybe a non-fatal transition of our own, a difficult decision, or a relationship challenge.   God provides us reminders of His holy presence, who brings us peace and encouragement when we turn to Him.  And, even at night, when burdens might even be intensified and restlessness can creep in, we can meditate on His Word and even allow His songs in the night to penetrate our souls.