Philippians 2:8 “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.”
As numerous renditions of “Taps” were performed on Memorial Day, I was struck by the simplicity of this short tune. No words accompany it nor is it played with great fanfare. Yet it stands as one of the most widely recognizable tunes in existence.
Out of curiosity, I googled this iconic melody. Did you know the entirety of “Taps” is comprised of only four musical notes, creating a short melody twenty-four notes in length? This song is presented by one lone instrument (a bugle or trumpet) and serves two distinct purposes. When played at military funerals, it honors the sacrifice of life. When played in the evenings, it signifies the close of day, giving it the unofficial title, “Day is Done.”
For the first time ever, I considered the similarities between “Taps” and the cross of Christ.
The unconventional, simplistic melody of “Taps” is performed by a singular musician using one instrument. Likewise, an unconventional Son of God chose a simplistic life on earth. For us, He bore the cross; His singular instrument of love.
No lyrics accompany “Taps”, yet it resonates mournful emotions causing us to reflect on sacrifice and freedom. In similar fashion, no words adequately express the love shown by Christ on the cross, yet through a mournful heart we reflect on our great sin and His greater sacrifice.
Taps serves two purposes: it honors fallen soldiers, and it closes out the day. Jesus came to earth for two reasons: to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). It was the great love behind His seeking-and-saving mission that led Him to the cross.
“Day is Done” is the title assigned this tune in the evenings. When played after dark, it indicates the completion of the day. Consider the final words of Christ on the cross: “It is Finished.” The love and events found within these three words indicate the completion of Christ’s earthly mission.
Musicians have commented that “Taps” is the most difficult twenty-four notes ever played. The challenge is to convey how great a love and sacrifice was given. Likewise, the final twenty-four hours of Christ’s life leading Him to the cross contained the most difficult steps ever taken. The love conveyed by the cross far outweighs any other love and sacrifice known to man. Sisters may both the sacrifices of our soldiers and our Savior live on with gratitude for the ultimate price paid.
Father God, we are humbled by the love You have shown us through the cross.
Blessings,
Rita Cochrane