In order for twenty-first century readers to properly understand Revelation, we have to look at it through first century eyes. Their understanding of the book frames our understanding. Start with the assumption that the last book of the Bible is exactly what it purports to be - a revelation, not a mystery. Add to that assumption the fact that it was written by a first century author and that it was originally read by first century readers who were expected to understand and obey the message contained in it. Take into consideration their first century frame-of-reference and the authors familiarity with the Old Testament. Wrap that all up in the popular apocalyptic literary genre of its day with its pervasive use of symbolism. That mixture of elements is what gave rise to the Book of Revelation.

This glorious oratorio by Handel transcribes very well for double brass quintet. Brilliant fanfare figures in the trumpets and the powerful choral parts given to the horns and trombones make this piece a newly discovered brass master work. The range and technical demands are reasonable for all players.

After emigrating from Germany to Michigan at age seven, Johannes Strieter (1829-1920) served as a confessional Lutheran pastor in Ohio, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana amid almost unbelievable hardships. Though not a well-known person himself, his life's path intersected with that of numerous distinguished persons--August Cramer, Friedrich Wyneken, J. C. W. Lindemann, C. F. W. Walther, and John C. Pritzlaff, just to name a handful. Through his recollections, we also encounter firsthand the Ojibwa; the Civil War; the establishment and founding of roads, cities, churches, and schools; and we travel by sea, lake, river, canal, railroad, horseback, buggy, stagecoach, and on foot. We accompany him as he nearly kills his sister; is spared in a terrible accident; falls in love; navigates difficult pastoral situations and decisions; gets drafted into the Union Army; buries some of his children; ministers to the troubled, misguided, sick, and dying; and finally retires to Michigan on account of deafness. Translated afresh from Strieter's original manuscript and presented with twelve appendices to supplement his autobiography, Sacred Storytelling is a treasure trove of adventure, perspective, entertainment, courage, and conviction.