The Lord Reigns!

“I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.” – Revelation 19:6 KJV

George Frideric Handel achieved fame writing operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions. But by 1741, the popularity of opera had declined. He was in debt, depressed, and plagued by sleeplessness and rheumatism.

That summer, he accepted an invitation to produce a series of concerts in Dublin. He also received a letter from a man who had previously written librettos for him – lyrics that contained Bible verses. As he read, Handel felt impressed to set these words to music to fulfill that Dublin commitment. Handel locked himself in his study and within three weeks finished an oratorio he called The Messiah.

It is said that while writing The Messiah, Handel saw visions. While composing the “Hallelujah Chorus,” he saw Heaven open and the hosts worshiping God.

From the music’s first performance, this composition was special. At the first London performance when King George III heard the “Hallelujah Chorus,” he was so overwhelmed that he stood and remained standing until the chorus concluded. This began a tradition that continues to this day.

Handel’s life was transformed by God’s Word and overwhelmed by a vision of Heaven. God’s Word and an awareness of Heaven can transform your life too.

Ask God to give you a sense of the glory of Heaven and the greatness of our God. Join the multitudes of the ages singing, “Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.”

Reflection Question: Describe the glory and awesomeness of Heaven.