AUTHOR: Joni Eareckson Tada
PUBLISHER: Wheaton, IL: Crossway Publishers, 2022, (200 pages).
Colossians 3:16 exhorts us to let the Word of Christ dwell in our hearts richly, that when we have deep gratitude in our hearts, we will be able to respond to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. The Book of Psalms is a wonderful collection of amazing spiritual insights and worship. We sing not only when we are happy, we sing even as we lament the struggles of this life. Entitled "Songs of Suffering," this book is an attempt to make sense of some of the most popular and powerful hymns used through the centuries. Written and compiled by one who has known suffering personally, Joni Eareckson Tada who is a quadriplegic, shares with us spiritual insights and learnings from 25 hymns. Not only should these hymns be sung more frequently, the author believes that the lyrics should be memorized as well. Many of the hymn lyrics contain powerful theological truth. Included in this collection are devotional lessons, inspiring events, and strength for the soul. Each chapter begins with a Bible verse to anchor our thoughts on. The author then weaves her own stories and experience into the telling of the story and the relationship to the hymn itself. This is followed by a melody score with words and music for musicians to play and sing along to.This is helpful for those who find the hymns unfamiliar. She ends the book with a "reprise" which is a musical reflection and some last-minute advice. She divides the hymns into the following categories:
- Songs of Comfort (8 hymns)
- Songs of Strength (8 hymns)
- Songs of Hope (9 hymns)
My Thoughts
It takes one who is suffering to know what suffering actually entails. For many years, Joni Eareckson Tada has been an inspiration and encouragement to many people. One does not have to experience suffering in order to appreciate the angst. I have read several of her books and have always found them encouraging. In our often fast-paced world and busyness, it takes discipline to slow down and reflect on life. When stung by some of life's greatest challenges, we are often forced to stop and ask about the meaning and significance of life. Joni's experience of suffering helps her resonate with some of the most compelling hymn-writer stories. Having contracted Covid herself in 2020, she clung on the hope in God as she deals with the fearsome illness. The hymn "Be Still My Soul" helps her heart to prepare a place to sing a song of trust in God. The hymn "Abide in Me" reminds her of John 15 and how much we need to be "wedged" in the Lord. The famous hymn "It is Well with My Soul" is particularly relevant to the author. It helps her ponder on the question: "How is it I keep smiling after so many years of quadriplegia?" Our life experiences can lead us to a deeper appreciation of the hymns of old.Thankfully, songs of suffering are not just about lament. There are hymns that give strength to the weary soul. The hymn "O Church Arise" is a drumroll of strength in God. "Immortal Invisible God Only Wise" is a powerful reminder of how big God is. Hymns like "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" point us to Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith, and also a fellow sufferer. The hymns selected for the section on hope point us to the deep love of Jesus, our future hope in the coming kingdom, and many more. With beautiful accompanying photos, this book helps us use most of our senses and focus them on God. With ears to listen to the music, eyes to capture the beautiful image of creation, and senses to discern the movement of God's Spirit in us, we can let God lead us to a place that is beyond ourselves.
This is a book for all believers. One does not necessarily have to suffer or struggle now in order to appreciate the message in this book. In fact, we all go through the ups and downs of life. All of us would surely have moments of doubt and despair. When those times happen, we can remember what we learn from this book. Let this book point us not only to spiritual relief in our hearts but also to point us to the Giver of all Comfort: God Himself.
Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Crossway Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
This is a book for all believers. One does not necessarily have to suffer or struggle now in order to appreciate the message in this book. In fact, we all go through the ups and downs of life. All of us would surely have moments of doubt and despair. When those times happen, we can remember what we learn from this book. Let this book point us not only to spiritual relief in our hearts but also to point us to the Giver of all Comfort: God Himself.
Joni Eareckson Tada is CEO of Joni and Friends, a global ministry that serves the practical and spiritual needs of people with disabilities. She is also an artist and the author of numerous bestselling books, including Joni; A Place of Healing; and When God Weeps. Joni and her husband, Ken, reside in Calabasas, California.
Kristyn Getty studied English and ethnomusicology at Queens University, Belfast, graduating in 2003. She and her husband, Keith Getty, write modern hymns for the church. Together, they founded and lead the Getty Music label, publishing house, events company, and foundation, all of which exist to develop and steward modern and traditional hymns around the world. Kristyn and Keith live in Nashville, Tennessee with their four young daughters.
Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Crossway Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
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