Day 25: A New Song

Bible translation is more than just words on a page—it’s music in the heart!

As important as it is to translate the Word of God, there is also a great need to set translated Scripture to music. Music can bring the message of God’s Word off the page and into the heart. In some translation programs, arts consultants work alongside local singers, actors, dancers, and storytellers to spark artistic creations. Their goal is to encourage people to worship God in the way that is most natural in their culture.

Ethnomusicology—essentially the study of a culture’s musical forms and styles—leads to a greater understanding of the unique musical culture of each people group and therefore to the development of meaningful and lasting music. In addition to celebrating universal Christian themes, the hymns people create can speak to their specific interests and needs. Their music can help people to memorize God’s Word and also serve as an effective evangelism tool.

Pray for inspiration and creativity among localpeople who can develop worship that will speak to the hearts of their community. 

Ask God to guide and direct ethnomusicologists as they work to understand the musical cultures of minority people groups.

Pray for inspiration and creativity among local people who can develop worship that will speak to the hearts of their community.