Words From The Warden

What Would Your Song Be?
At the end of her sermon on Easter Sunday, Pastor Julia posed a thought-provoking question: “In 2026, what would your song be?” During the drive home, Kim reminded me that my quest for a personal theme song has been ongoing for as long as we've known each other. Over the years, she has often pointed out that life isn’t a musical, but I still persist in searching for that one defining song—the one that would play as I walk into a room, instantly letting everyone know who I am. Music has the power to stir deep emotions within us. According to scripture, music is a source of joy (Ephesians 5:19 and Zephaniah 3:17), and science tells us that music can evoke vivid autobiographical memories.

As I sat down to write this message, I found myself revisiting many chapters of my life through the songs that have accompanied them. My earliest meaningful memories of music involve singing along with Captain Kangaroo and Mr. Green Jeans to “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” In first and second grade, we sang that song and “Jesus Loves Me” almost every day. Mrs. Schuerman, our teacher, played the piano while we sang with enthusiasm. She was also my Sunday school teacher, and the way we sang “Jesus Loves Me” made it easy for any child to believe its message.

The Psalms, specifically 100 and 98, invite us to make a joyful noise to God. These passages remind us that God delights in music, and since we are created in His image, it is only natural that music holds a special place in our hearts as well. Our love for music is a reflection of the Creator’s own joy in song and celebration.

Thinking back to my time as a junior at Brookside High School, I recall how our football coach would use creative methods to inspire us. One vivid memory stands out from a team meeting when he put a record on the player, and we listened together to “The Impossible Dream.” That song has remained a favorite of mine ever since. It brings back memories of the strong bonds I shared with my teammates and the spirit of giving our all for one another on the field. Listening to that song also brings to mind the sense of anticipation I felt back then—the awareness of all the possibilities that lay ahead, both the potential successes and the inevitable failures. Each time I hear “The Impossible Dream,” I am reminded not only of those formative experiences but also of the enduring power of music to connect us to our past and to each other.

Research at Durham University revealed that music evokes consistently more positive memories than other sounds or words associated with emotional cues. This unique ability of music to connect us to joyful moments can be seen in my own experiences as a parent.

When my children were young, I developed a bedtime tradition of singing “The Sweetheart Tree” to them. Although Natalie Wood performed the song beautifully in The Great Race, I sang it with just as much emotion and sincerity. Over the course of forty years, I sang Matt, then Todd, and then Alexis to sleep with that song. Even now, whenever I hear or sing “The Sweetheart Tree,” I am instantly transported back to their bedrooms. I can recall the sound of their breathing, and I still cherish the sweetness of their breath and the beauty of their faces.

As Alexis grew up, one of our cherished traditions became singing together the beloved song made famous by Louis Armstrong, “What a Wonderful World.” This song held a special place in our hearts, serving as a reminder of the beauty and joy we found in everyday moments spent together.

When the time came for Alexis’s wedding reception, she chose to play “What a Wonderful World” for the father-bride dance. Dancing with her, listening to the familiar melody and lyrics, I was overcome with emotion. The significance of the moment, coupled with all the memories we had shared through that song, left me completely speechless and deeply moved.
Music has not only accompanied the joyful milestones in my life, but it has also helped me endure some of the most challenging seasons. During the years when I was separated and eventually divorced, I found solace in the old song, “You’ve Got to Walk This Lonesome Valley.” The lyrics served as a gentle but honest reminder that everyone faces hard times, and while we may have companions who understand our struggles, some journeys must be walked alone.

Even during those lonely moments, a familiar refrain would quietly play in the background of my mind— “Jesus Loves Me.” The simple message of that song provided comfort and reassurance when I needed it most, reminding me that, no matter how isolating the experience, I was never truly alone.

Music has a profound impact on our mind, body, and emotions, capturing our attention and resonating deeply within us. I feel incredibly fortunate for many reasons. Over the last twenty-six years, I have been blessed to share my life with Kim, my beloved spouse. Our marriage has been a source of strength and joy. I am also grateful that my children have grown into genuinely good people, each bringing their own unique gifts and character to the world.

Throughout my life, I have been able to dream and pursue those dreams, often with the support and encouragement of wonderful people around me. These relationships have made my journey richer and more meaningful.

Yet, I also recognize that difficult and unpleasant experiences have shaped me. Jesus teaches that hardships and challenges come to everyone, even those who strive to do good. These experiences have taught me resilience and faith, reinforcing the truth that adversity is an inevitable part of life.

Ultimately, my relationship with Jesus is central to my sense of gratitude and purpose. Knowing that He knows me and cares for me brings comfort and perspective, especially during tough times. For all these reasons—joys, dreams, relationships, and even struggles— “The Lucky One” by Allison Krauss is the song that embodies my journey and outlook for 2026.

Peace,
Henry Zaborniak, Senior Warden