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(Preparing the Way)
The Virtuoso Call to Action
After the tender invitation of “Comfort Ye,” the oratorio explodes with energy in “Every Valley Shall Be Exalted.” This is where the tenor soloist gets to show off – rapid melismatic runs, elaborate baroque ornamentation, virtuosic vocal technique that declares: preparation isn’t passive, it’s active and joyful!
The Biblical Foundation
This continues Isaiah 40:4, expanding on that beautiful image: “Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.”
But the prophecy goes beyond geography. Luke 3:5-6 connects it to salvation: “Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth. And all people will see God’s salvation.”
This isn’t just about John the Baptist preparing roads in the wilderness. It’s about God’s comprehensive plan to remove every obstacle between humanity and Himself.
The Baroque Style
When I sang in choir, these virtuosic arias were always my favorite – even if they were terrifying! The word “exalted” in Handel’s version has something like 40 notes on that one syllable. It’s baroque at its finest – using elaborate musical ornamentation to emphasize the glory of the text.
In “Every Valley Shall Be Exalted,” the tenor soloist gets those same kinds of runs – particularly on words like “exalted,” “straight,” and “glory.” The voice becomes an instrument of praise, weaving intricate patterns that mirror the complexity and beauty of God’s redemptive plan.
Writing This Aria
I wanted this piece to feel like pure joy and anticipation. The orchestral ritornello (introduction) sets up bright baroque strings and harpsichord. Then the tenor enters with confidence and brilliance.
The lyrics emphasize both the physical imagery and the spiritual reality:
- “Every valley shall be lifted high” – God raises the lowly
- “Every mountain brought down low” – Pride is humbled
- “The crooked roads made straight and clear” – Deception gives way to truth
- “For the glory that’s about to show” – Christ is coming!
The Theology
This is the gospel in metaphor. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” We all have valleys (places of shame and inadequacy) and mountains (places of pride and self-sufficiency) in our lives.
But 1 Corinthians 1:27-29 promises, “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.”
God is in the business of leveling the playing field. He exalts the humble and humbles the exalted. He makes rough paths smooth so that EVERYONE can access salvation.
Why This Matters Today
What valleys in your life need to be lifted? What mountains of pride need to come down? What crooked thinking needs straightening?
The coming of Christ means God is actively preparing the way – not just externally, but in the landscape of your heart.
Philippians 1:6 assures us, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
God is still in the preparation business. Let Him level the ground of your heart today.
Publishing Note:
Album Title: The Modern Messiah
Artist Name: Melanie Grace
Published Artist Credit: Claude H. Becker
Genre: Baroque Oratorio / Classical Sacred Music
Total Songs: 14
Album Length: 42-48 minutes
Musical Style: Complete baroque oratorio in the tradition of Handel’s Messiah, featuring SATB choir, baroque soloists (soprano, alto, tenor, bass), and full baroque orchestra (harpsichord, strings, oboe, baroque trumpet, timpani, organ). All original lyrics rooted in Scripture, following the three-part oratorio structure: Part I – The Promise (Prophecy & Birth), Part II – The Passion (Mission & Sacrifice), Part III – The Victory (Resurrection & Reign).
Blog Series Structure:
Blog 1: Introduction (Personal story, choir background, why create this)
Blogs 2-15: One blog per song in album order
Blog 16: Closing (Call to bring baroque to new generation)
In loving memory of Dad, who taught me to find joy in unexpected places and to never stop singing. This oratorio is my offering – to the church, to the next generation, and to the King of Kings who is worthy of all our praise. Until we sing together in heaven, I’ll keep singing here.
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