Last night while attending a lovely Advent lessons & carols service with my sister @ my church, several verses from Isaiah jumped off the page into my heart.

“Comfort ye, comfort ye my people…”

They also brought to mind a favorite rendition of Handel’s Messiah (with a slightly different beat from the classical choral, organ & bells arrangements we were enjoying.)

Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration definitely ramps joyful vibes up a bit. I remember cherishing this Gospel compilation way back in 1992 when it came out, then playing it (over & over again) in the Middle East for years as a joy-generator.

(For new readers, years ago Virginia sang in the Gospel Choir of an inner-city church in Washington, D.C.  ‘Twas a life highlight – & she was the only redhead!)

Here’s a link to a YouTube video of a favorite song: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted

“Every valley shall be exalted
And every mountain and hill brought low;
The crooked places shall be made straight
And the rough places smooth;

The glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
And all flesh shall see it together;
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” 

Isaiah 40:4-5

And here’s a YouTube video of the Hallelujah Chorus (soulful celebratory style.) Email readers, you know the drill. Click into the Roses website to view after a short ad.

“I shout for joy.” Psalms 92:5

grace, peace & joyful exultations

Virginia : )