Godspell
Word From Wiese
July 29, 2026
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105
This past Sunday our congregation had the joy of singing songs from Godspell. Kudos to Brad Milburn, our Director of Contemporary Worship, for weaving together a dynamic summer-time service. And how fun to hear the high pipes of Pastor Wes! The worship leaders were a neat mix of contemporary and traditional service musicians; thanks to all involved.
One worshiper grabbed me after church, telling me, “I remember when this came out in 1971!” How remarkable that 55 years later, Godspell still speaks to our hearts. Another worshiper told me, “I can’t believe the Godspell composer Stephen Schwartz would go on to write Wicked,” which has dominated the box office and streaming sites the last two decades.
Loosely based on the Gospel of Matthew, the musical tells Jesus’ story through parables, humor, friendship, and unforgettable songs. An interesting twist is that the old English word “godspel” literally means “good news,” our English word gospel. Every Christian is invited to become part of God’s spell: not magic, but God’s beautiful story that still has the power to captivate hearts and transform lives.
What lyrics from Sunday might still be swirling in your hearts? Here are some possibilities:
“Day by day…”
A beautiful reminder that faith isn’t usually built all at once. God forms us one ordinary day at a time. We pray for our Father to give us our daily bread. Today’s small prayer and act of kindness all matter over the course of time.
“All good gifts…”
Gratitude changes how we see the world. We often think first about what we lack, but Scripture invites us to notice the countless gifts already surrounding us, like life, grace, forgiveness, family, friendships, and the daily bread God faithfully provides.
“Prepare ye…”
John the Baptist’s ancient invitation still echoes today. Preparing for Christ isn’t just something we do during Advent. Every morning we can clear a little room in our hearts for God’s presence to shape our words, decisions, and relationships.
“Light of the World.”
Jesus never intended his light to remain hidden inside church walls. Jesus challenges us to shine our light as ordinary people serving neighbors, offering forgiveness, speaking hope, and choosing compassion over cynicism.
And here’s one that caught my attention too: “Someone’s got to be oppressed.”
That line makes me uncomfortable. We hear it and instinctively want to protest, “No—that isn’t how God’s kingdom works.” Yet history shows how easily people convince themselves (or are taught) that some groups must carry heavier burdens so others may prosper. Jesus consistently crossed those dividing lines, lifting the overlooked, welcoming the excluded, and challenging systems that left people behind.
We’ll explore that challenging truth together in an upcoming sermon series, “Better Ways to Read the Bible,” running from August 23 to Sept 13.
So, what do you think? Godspell doesn’t simply entertain us. It also reminds us that following Jesus is joyful, demanding, hopeful, and practical. Thanks again Brad and all our worship leaders.
Questions for Reflection
- Which Godspell lyric stayed with you after worship, and why do you think God might be using those words in your life this week?
- What is one small way you can help build God’s “beautiful city” through an act of love, mercy, or justice today?
In Christ’s hope,
Pastor Fritz
Let us pray: God of Music and Story, thank you for filling our hearts with songs that point us toward your Gospel. Let the words we sang become the life we live. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
