I’ve noticed that during this time of COVID-10, many people are turning to music for comfort. I’d guess most of us teared up when we watched videos from Spain or Italy of neighbors serenading each other from their balconies or when we see father/daughter duets on Facebook. There is a unique comfort we receive from music. Music from previous generations can remind us that we have faced uncertain times in the past; new music being written today can touch us with its relevance to our current situation. The staff at HopeNet believes music is soothing as well. We are finding comfort in music, and we want to share that with you all. Here are some of the songs staff members are turning to during these strange and uncertain days:
Francis Waldren: God is helping me work on living in the moment right now! I have to admit to dancing while I walk at times – people might think “this lady isn’t stable,” but I start to feel the music and get my mind off statistics, future fears, and giggle to myself! I’ve found myself going back to the oldies but goodies: “Here Comes the Sun,” “In My Life” and “Penny Lane” by the Beatles; “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Creedance Clearwater Revival, “Holly Holy” by Neil Diamond and many others!
Dawn Kerr: Shane and Shane is who I search for when I need reassurance in this crazy time. Their albums are the soundtrack I go back to when I need the truth of God’s Word. I love opening the Bible and singing along. It reminds me Who is in control, that He never leaves us, that He is on our side, that He is Powerful, and we are never really alone.
Allie Nowlin: One song that I find comforting is “Run to the Father” by Cody Carnes. I find it comforting because it reminds me of just how much I need Jesus. It also serves as a reminder that I don’t have to carry my burdens anymore. I wasn’t created to bear them alone. I don’t have to hide anything from God, and I don’t need to be ashamed to bring my burdens to Him. He loves and cares for me so deeply that He acts as my “surgeon” and repairs my heart of sin and brokenness. What great love is this!
Hope Komarynsky: I am loving “Count Me In” by Switch. Aside from the catchy beat, I find the lyrics to bring a renewed passion for life to my heart. Throughout the verses, there are many examples of times we may feel anxious, weak, or overtaken by uncertainty. I find it to be so encouraging because the song is a response to those uncomfortable feelings with a declaration that God is bigger than all things, and no matter what is to come, I want God to “count me in.”
Jo Lynn Bright: I have loved listening to “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland during this time.
Ann Harder: I find myself drawn to the organization and beauty of Bach. When things seem chaotic and uncertain, Bach helps bring a sense of clarity and peace. I have also enjoyed some newer music like Zach Williams. His duet with Dolly Parton, “There was Jesus” has been especially comforting.
The world of music creates avenues for connection and comfort. Listening to music is a great way to tend to your mental and spiritual health! Take time to enjoy some your favorite artists or songs each day while enjoying nature, taking a walk, or spending time with your family and delight in the comfort that it brings!
