Christ in Our Midst – Lange’s “Esto les Digo”

Esto les Digo by Kinley Lange
For Sunday, June 14, 2026

By Carol Nave

This Sunday at the 11:00 a.m. service, the choir will sing Esto les digo ("This I Say to You") by American composer and conductor Kinley Lange. The anthem sets Matthew 18:19-20 in Spanish, centering on Jesus' promise: "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them." The gentle, contemplative setting allows the text to unfold naturally, creating a sense of peace, unity, and prayerful reflection.

Lange, a composer, arranger, and choral clinician, is widely known for music that emphasizes the power of community and shared musical expression. He has described music-making as a way of connecting people to one another and creating something greater than any individual could accomplish alone. This spirit of community is beautifully reflected in Esto les digo, where the voices weave together to express Christ's presence among those gathered in faith.

Although the text comes from Matthew 18, its message resonates with this Sunday's Gospel reading from Matthew 9 and 10. Jesus calls his disciples to go into the world together, sharing God's compassion and care. Before they are sent, however, they are first gathered around Christ. Esto les digo reminds us that wherever believers come together in prayer, worship, and service, Christ remains present among them.

Translation of the central text:

"If two of you agree on earth about anything you ask in prayer, my Father in heaven will grant it. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them." (Matthew 18:19-20)