Be Still and Consider

Program Notes:

In the rush of the coming season, with its many demands and expectations, we pause with this music to reflect and “be still”.

Conductor Notes:

SSA and piano with oboe obbligato. Larry Nickel originally wrote this for mixed choir and trumpet, and in the revoicing for women’s choir, I felt a woodwind would be more effective. This is an approachable piece that would suit younger voices as well as adults.

Download this track from Elektra’s “Still” CD on iTunes.

Text:

From Isaiah 40:12, 26, 28, John 1:1-14, and John 3:16

Who holds the dust of the earth in a basket?
Who weighs the mighty hills in a balance?
Lift your eyes, look to the heavens.
Who created all these?

Be still. Consider the wonders of God.
Lift up your eyes, look to the heavens.
Who created all these?

He who measured out the ocean in the hollow of His hand.
He who beckons out the starry host and calls each one by name.

In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
He became flesh and dwelt among us.

For God so loved the world
that he gave His Son
and whosoever believes in Him
will have eternal life.

He who measured out the ocean in the hollow of His hand.
Born to Virgin Mary, the Lord became a man.
He who beckons out the starry host and calls each one by name.
Came to offer us abundant life, His love is ours today.

Be still. Consider the wonders of God.
Be still.