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Psalm 45:1 – Beautiful words fill my mind, as I compose this song for the king. Like the pen of a good writer my tongue is ready with a poem. (GNT)
Last year on this day, a two-part devotional entitled "A Legacy of Faith” was published to commemorate the Armenian genocide which took place in Turkey during the World War I era. My friend Parise wrote the first part in honour of her father Armen John Arakelian to perpetuate his miraculous testimony and story of survival. I wrote the second part based on the book Under a New Banner by Estelle Grant, which depicts the riveting account of Armen's life and the heart-breaking ordeal that members of his family and church were made to endure.
Several months later, I shared this inspiring story with my friend Sharon — a gifted singer and song-writer whose music always gives praise and glory to God. Then one day, she surprised me with a beautiful song inspired by my devotional "Desert Rose“. The message spoke to her of two very special women in Armen's life: his mother Agayne (pronounced Ah-nee), like a delicate rose, who died in the Syrian Desert; and his lovely sister Parease, an exceptional young girl, who was prepared to die rather than to be forced to give up her faith. Sharon's song, called “Beautiful Bride Agayne” (now posted on YouTube), brought tears to my eyes as I envisioned these remarkable individuals, adorned like brides, now rejoicing in the royal courts of their redeemer and King.
The tender words of my friend's song led me to another bridal hymn — Psalm 45. It begins, "For the director of music. To the tune of 'Lilies'." This psalm is unique in the psaltery, being the only wedding hymn in the book of Psalms. The passage is also considered messianic, of which the ultimate fulfillment is seen in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the royal Bridegroom, and we, the church, who are His bride.
Reflecting on this experience, I realized how one person's gift, when used for the glory of God, will have a domino effect within the body of Christ. Parise shared her father's legacy of faith; then I shared his testimony with a friend; she, in turn, was inspired to write a song; and I now share these insights with you.
Perhaps you can share this devotional with a friend who might compose yet another beautiful poem, one that will forever bring glory and honour to our eternal King.
Prayer: Lord, we thank You for the testimony of Armen's family and the song which they inspired for the glory of Your name. May the faith stories of others continue to be told, and may they be used to further Your kingdom as we offer our gifts and talents to You. In Jesus' blessed name, we pray. Amen.
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Good reminder Lori.
Thank you. I needed that today.
Thanks Lori for a good word today!
Blessings.
Thank you, Lori for sharing my father’s story of courage and faith. May we never forget the Armenian Christians who died standing up for their faith.
Yes Lori,
what a friend we have in Jesus!
Blessings.
Dear Lori!
Amen is not enough to say, but it is all I’ve got for now.
Thanks for writing to us!
Lori, Words can barely express how very special this sharing time is.
Thank you to all involved and all glory to God who is the inspiration behind all our devotionals.
I enjoyed the music so much.
Dear Lori,
Your devotional on this day of commemoration of the first genocide of the 20th century is very touching, especially when presented in combination with the precious song written by Sharon. Thank you for further connecting this song with the messianic psalm which describes our status as the bride of Christ. It is so beautifully presented. Praise be to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Blessings.
Lori my dear friend.
That was a very heartfelt devotional. It did me a power of good to read. It reconfirmed in my mind the importance of passing on our blessing to others.
Right now my wife is canvassing for the daffodil campaign for the cancer society going door to door on her designated route. Seems as if we are defying the weather and still having a flowery month.
Blessings.
Greetings Lori,
I remember Parise’s devotional. Indeed it burnt an image into my memory like the digital bytes etched via laser onto a blank DVD or cd rom.
What people of faith endure to remain close to our Lord.
So much we individuals take for granted. What seems large & painful is nothing compared to what others endure. I have had frustration replaced with understanding by FATHER for which I am thankful. Even as I type this to you while waiting for the words I have thoughts of gratitude for the enlightenment that presents its self.
Parise’s devotional that allowed her father’s trials and his faith through them all touched my heart as I thought of all those close to him that suffered. How can man be so cruel? And of course, why?
Those answers will come in their time. In the meantime I will take comfort in my LORD & SAVIOR as I am guided to the safety of safe anchorages…though HIS voice though you, Parise, and the others who share through their devotionals.
In may daily routine I try and focus on all the positive things in my life and avoid those who are try and drag me back to places I have crawled from. If I hear ‘I know but’ too many times I ‘shake the dust’ and move forward or sidestep. Some people seem to prefer their present position and want you to join them. I learned way to late in life. So Lori, I again thank you for being one of our Lord’s voices..for with out you and the others I would be in dire straights.
May FATHERS blessings continue to rain upon you always!
(Texas)
Lori, Thank you for sharing this devotional and the song with us. May we always be focused on sharing the message of Christ’s love. Blessings.
Lori,
CONGRATULATIONS…WOW this was a home run. Thank you for such a nice tribute. The song that Sharon wrote is beautiful.
The wait to see your devotional was worth it.
Thanks again.
Thank you Lori for today’s devotional. Your message and Sharon’s song blessed me today.
God bless you as you continue to write for us.