When discussing Sufjan Stevens most people point to his two most widely known albums Welcome to Michigan or Come on Feel the Illinoise as their favorites, however for myself this is not true. I began listening to Sufjan shortly after the Michigan album was released and while I thoroughly enjoyed the breath of fresh it brought to this hardcore kid, it was his afterthought in Seven Swans that truly captivated. It has stood the test of time for me, as one who is constantly looking to what is next (and have since realized that is not a good thing).

It has been quite some time since I listened to anything Sufjan has done.  Just a few years ago I would have jumped all over anything he has released, however I sit here typing this up without even owning his latest two projects Run Rabbit Run or The BQE.  During a discussion last night with a close couple, the husband mentioned that the youth leaders have been discussing performing “The Transfiguration” during the offertory and my eyes lit up.  It was like when you discover something you have been missing in a box after many years or an old friend walking in to a coffee shop.  You see, The Transfiguration is by far my favorite Sufjan Stevens song.  It solidifies the release as one of the most liturgical albums I have owned.  It is much more theologically rich than most of the ‘worship’ CD’s you can buy, not to mention that is also much more theologically sound.

So this morning, after a Shipley’s do-nut and some coffee, we listen to Seven Swans as we slowly begin the process of getting ready for worship with our church community.  I have already prayed that it would prepare our hearts for the liturgy, the Word, and of course, the bread and wine.

I have included the song in this post, so please enjoy it and I pray that it does the same for you.