Music can wield both good and bad influence over us

Dear Dr. Graham: It is claimed that music can influence a people and a nation, good or bad. Do you agree? M.L.

Dear M.L.: George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” is a splendid example of how the written word set to music affects the human heart. The text for the music was compiled from the Bible by Handel’s friend Charles Jennens.

When it was first performed in 1742, a member of the audience expressed gratitude to Handel for “producing such a wonderful piece of ‘entertainment.’ ““Entertainment!” Handel replied. “My purpose was not to entertain, but to teach them something.” For centuries Handel’s message has resonated in hearts, proclaiming that Jesus is the lord who died and rose again.

A soprano solo in the Messiah masterpiece combines Job 19 and 1 Corinthians 15 to proclaim: “I know that my Redeemer lives ... for now is Christ risen from the dead.”

On the other hand, music can also have the opposite effect on people, causing hopelessness and despair. A popular song years ago invited listeners to visualize an existence where there is no Heaven, no Hell, no religion; where everyone lives only for today.

Parents, listen to the words your children are speaking and be mindful of every form of entertainment to which they are exposed.

Lead and guide them to wholesomeness at every turn in life.