The Worship Quote of the Week for (12/20/2005):

"Come and Stand Amazed" Does the birth of Christ amaze you? Today’s WORSHIP QUOTE is a medieval Dutch carol that calls the reader to gaze afresh at the wonder of “Immanuel, God with us.” Notice that the final stanza is a prayer to the Savior. I invite you to read it aloud in worship to the “long-expected Jesus.” ========================= Please see the bottom of this message for a gift of three free songs from Keith and Kristyn Getty.] ========================= COME AND STAND AMAZED Come and stand amazed, you people, See how God is reconciled! See his plans of love accomplished, See his gift, this newborn child. See the Mighty, weak and tender, See the Word who now is mute. See the Sovereign without splendor, See the Fullness destitute; The Beloved, whom we covet, In a state of low repute. See how humankind received him; See him wrapped in swaddling bands, Who as Lord of all creation Rules the wind by his commands. See him lying in a manger Without sign of reasoning; Word of God to flesh surrendered, He is wisdom’s crown, our King. See how tender our Defender At whose birth the angels sing. O Lord Jesus, God incarnate, Who assumed this humble form, Counsel me and let my wishes To your perfect will conform. Light of life, dispel my darkness, Let your frailty strengthen me; Let your meekness give me boldness, Let your burden set me free; Let your sadness give me gladness, Let your death be life for me. —Medieval Dutch carol, translated by Klaas Hart (1906-1973), as collected in PROCLAIMING THE CHRISTMAS GOSPEL: ANCIENT SERMONS AND HYMNS FOR CONTEMPORARY INSPIRATION. Edited by John D. Witvliet and David Vroege. Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2004, page 99. ISBN 0-8010-6405-8 ================================= A FREE MUSIC GIFT FOR YOUR CHURCH ================================= In celebration of their recent US tour, Keith and Kristyn Getty are offering three free songs to you and your church. Piano scores (PDF format) for “The Power of the Cross,” “In Christ Alone,” and “There Is a Higher Throne” can be yours just for the asking. Simply go to www.topohouse.com/client/login.asp. The username is “gettymusicgift” and the password is “gettymusicgift.” What could be easier? Click on the “gift” icon. You can also ask to be on their mailing list at www.gettymusic.com. “Let every heart prepare Him room.” Have a great week, Chip Stam Director, Institute for Christian Worship School of Church Music and Worship The Southern