Bach

by Pastor William C. Mack |  July 26, 2021
This week is dedicated, in part, in the Lutheran church to the celebration of the life of Johann Sebastian Bach[n 1]. He was born in Germany on March 1685 and died on 28 July 1750); a German composer and musician of the late Baroque period. In my humble opinion, he was a musical genius. I, personally, love his music so much that on my ordination into the public ministry of the Lutheran church I asked that one of his compositions, “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” be sung as a solo.

Incredibly, even with the loss of his parents at the age of 14, God guided him into avenues that would bring about his love for music. As others saw his talents he was blessed to be able to study music in schools not available to most. Ironically enough when he graduated, the first job he applied for as an organist was met with refusal! As his skill became known on a wider scale, he began performing for and writing compositions for aristocratic folks. Eventually, he married and became the chief organist for Saint Thomas Lutheran Church in Leipzig, Germany. (My wife and I were blessed to see the recital for a “Bach Celebration” there 8 years ago!)

So much has been written about this man who composed over 1,100 pieces of music that I cannot begin to do it justice. As one hears his hymns, etc., there is no doubt in one’s mind why J.S. Bach was considered to be “the 5th evangelist”! His music brings one closer to God because it is Christ-centered.

As we go through life, we too may, like Bach find incredible difficulties. A sister-in-Christ reminded me recently of this wonderful text; written by Jeremiah to the elders in captivity in Babylon. How they must have been heartbroken over losing their homes, families, friends, and Temple. But through it all God told them, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29: 11)

God will use you, His child, and guide you (and me) to where we should be and how we are to be used to His glory and to the edification of the saints in Christ. We may not become musical geniuses, like J.S. Bach, but we will be brought to where He wants us.

At the age of 65 J.S. Bach was having problems with his eyes. After having surgery on them from a physician known, later, to be a “quack”, he died from complications from that surgery. What a sad ending to a truly remarkable life. But Bach graciously received that which he had written and sung about for a lifetime! May our lives reflect that grace, love, and joy in Christ in whatever vocation the Savior gives us. Amen.