Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: http://read.jwpepper.com/i/102196
Foreword 2 The Passion story of Christ is a love story. It is the story of God sending His one and only Son—the Holy Lamb of God—to redeem all of humanity in a sacrificial act of love so that we might be eternally united with the Creator of the universe. The disciple John penned these words: "This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins" (I John 4:9-10). I am often overwhelmed by the love of the eternal God: a love so great that it would prompt the willing sacrifice of His own Son, Jesus. O nl y It is this incomparable love that is the central unifying thread of this cantata for Lent and/or Holy Week. Wondrous Love recounts the earthly life and ministry of Jesus. His was a life characterized by love as He taught and served others in the name of the One who had sent Him to live among us. Though many heard and received His message of love, ultimately the masses rejected Him, leading to His death on the cross. As terrible as this was, it was not unprecedented. Down through history, prophets and ambassadors of goodwill have been rejected and even killed for their messages. But it is here that this story becomes far different than any other story in history. —Lloyd Larson re vi ew The resiliency of love did not end with Christ's crucifixion. God's unwavering commitment to the human race was not derailed by the selfish exploits of those who had rejected the claims of Christ. For in this story, love overwhelmed hate; life triumphed over death and Jesus was raised from the dead. As the familiar Easter hymn says, "Love's redeeming work is done, fought the fight the battle won!" And He lives! I know that my Redeemer lives! Thanks be to God! Production notes Fo rP Wondrous Love is flexibly conceived for Lent and/or Holy Week. Each individual anthem may be presented during the weeks leading up to Easter, or the entire cantata may be performed as a whole with or without the resurrection finale, depending on programming needs. Small and large choirs alike will find the choral writing appealing and versatile. Accompaniment options ranging from piano only to full orchestra with CD accompaniment or live instruments ensures maximum flexibility for your unique programming needs. Contents Narration 1............................................. 3 Wondrous Love...................................... 3 Narration 2...........................................12 How Wonderful His Love!................... 13 Narration 3........................................... 21 Blessed Is He Who Comes...................22 Narration 4........................................... 33 55/1163&65L-2 The Night Before the Savior Died.......34 Narration 5........................................... 41 Behold the Lamb!................................42 Narration 6...........................................49 Worthy Is the Lamb!............................50 Narration 7...........................................58 My Redeemer's Love...........................59