MUSIC – 21st Sunday of Year B

The hymn “Jesus Is Here” by Cooper Ray and Steve Angrisano focuses on the presence of Jesus in our lives, emphasizing themes of unity, love, and faith, while drawing parallels to the scripture readings mentioned. Let’s break down these themes and their connections to the readings:

1. Jesus’ Presence: The central theme of the song is that Jesus is present in our lives, just as he promised to be with us always (Matthew 28:20). In the Gospel reading (John 6:60-69), Jesus acknowledges that some may find his teachings difficult but reassures his disciples that his words are Spirit and life. The song echoes this idea, reminding us of Jesus’ constant presence.
2. Unity and Love: The hymn emphasizes unity, love, and living in harmony with one another. Similarly, the second reading (Ephesians 5:21-32) stresses the importance of unity within the Church, comparing it to the relationship between spouses. This unity is based on mutual respect, love, and submission to Christ as the head of the Church.
3. Faith and Commitment: The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to keep faith, be strong, and walk together in Christ. This aligns with Joshua’s call to the Israelites in the first reading (Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b) to serve the Lord faithfully and choose him above all other gods. The Gospel reading also highlights the choice to remain committed to Jesus, even when faced with challenges or difficult teachings.

In conclusion, the hymn “Jesus Is Here” beautifully reflects the scripture readings by emphasizing the importance of recognizing Jesus’ presence in our lives, fostering unity and love within the Church, and remaining steadfast in our faith and commitment to Christ.

“I Will Choose Christ” by Tom Booth is a powerful song about devotion, choice, and commitment to Christ, which resonates with the themes found in the given scripture readings:

1. Choosing Christ: The central theme of the song is the personal decision to choose Christ above all else. This aligns with Joshua’s call to the Israelites in the first reading (Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b) to serve the Lord faithfully and choose him above other gods. The song’s lyrics express the commitment to choose Christ in both good times and bad, echoing the Gospel reading’s emphasis on remaining with Jesus despite difficulties (John 6:60-69).
2. Devotion and Commitment: The song speaks of a deep devotion to Christ and a willingness to follow him. This dedication mirrors the devotion within a marital relationship described in the second reading (Ephesians 5:21-32), which compares the relationship between spouses to the relationship between Christ and the Church. In both cases, love and commitment form the foundation of the relationship.
3. Strength in Faith: The lyrics of “I Will Choose Christ” convey the idea that choosing Christ provides strength and guidance, allowing one to face challenges with courage. This theme is evident in the Gospel reading as well, where Jesus’ words bring spiritual nourishment and eternal life to those who believe in him.

In summary, the themes of “I Will Choose Christ” by Tom Booth resonate with the scripture readings provided. The song emphasizes the importance of choosing Christ, fostering devotion and commitment, and finding strength in faith, reminding listeners of the powerful impact that a relationship with Jesus can have in their lives., reconciliation, and transformation in building a loving and inclusive community. the bread of life will be united with Him and experience the fullness of life.

“Where Shall We Go” by Ken Canedo and Jesse Manibusan is a song that highlights the themes of seeking guidance, finding a spiritual home, and staying committed to Christ, which are also present in the given scripture readings:

1. Seeking Guidance: The song’s lyrics express a desire to find direction and guidance in life, echoing the Israelites’ search for a leader in the first reading (Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b). Just as Joshua urged the Israelites to serve the Lord and follow his guidance, the song reflects on the search for a shepherd to lead and protect.
2. Finding a Spiritual Home: The search for a spiritual home is another key theme in “Where Shall We Go.” This mirrors the theme of unity and belonging within the Church, discussed in the second reading (Ephesians 5:21-32). The Church is compared to a spouse in a marriage, emphasizing the importance of love and unity within this spiritual home.
3. Commitment to Christ: The song also touches on the theme of commitment to Christ, emphasizing the importance of following him and staying true to his teachings. This theme is highlighted in the Gospel reading (John 6:60-69) as well, where Jesus asks his disciples to remain faithful to him even when faced with difficult teachings.

In conclusion, “Where Shall We Go” by Ken Canedo and Jesse Manibusan captures the essence of the provided scripture readings through its focus on seeking guidance, finding a spiritual home, and remaining committed to Christ. The song’s themes emphasize the importance of staying close to Jesus and the Church in times of uncertainty and difficulty.ove.6:41-51 by reinforcing the idea that faith in Jesus and partaking in the bread of life, as mentioned in the readings, bring unity, hope, and salvation.

“Lead Me, Lord” by John Becker is a powerful song that reflects on the themes of guidance, surrender, and commitment to God’s will, which are also present in the provided scripture readings:

1. Guidance: The song’s central theme is seeking guidance from God, as the singer asks the Lord to lead them. This theme resonates with the first reading (Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b), where Joshua encourages the Israelites to serve the Lord and choose him as their leader and guide.
2. Surrender: The lyrics of “Lead Me, Lord” express a willingness to surrender control and let God guide the way. This idea echoes the second reading (Ephesians 5:21-32), which discusses the relationship between spouses and Christ’s relationship with the Church. The passage emphasizes submission to Christ, just as the song highlights the importance of surrendering to God’s will.
3. Commitment to God’s Will: The song also touches on the theme of commitment to God’s will, as the singer asks for help to stay faithful. This is also present in the Gospel reading (John 6:60-69), where Jesus asks his disciples to remain committed to him, even when faced with difficult teachings or circumstances.

In summary, “Lead Me, Lord” by John Becker reflects the key themes of guidance, surrender, and commitment to God’s will, which are emphasized in the provided scripture readings. The song serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking and following the Lord’s guidance, surrendering to his will, and staying true to his teachings, even in the face of adversity.mple.