April 21, 2006

I stood with my hands poised in front of me. Expectant silence hovered in the room above the waiting audience. At my signal the pianist began the introduction. The choir, all eyes on their conductor, opened their mouths to sing.

Well, that’s one way to look at it. Some might just observe that the community cantata is having another Spring concert just as they have for over 20 years. There’s fewer choir members and less attendance than we’ve had in at least 11 years. This concert is just one more appointment to squeeze into an already busy resurrection weekend.

Or you might consider the ultimate privilege we have to worship and praise our Lord and Savior, Creator and King. Yes, it’s a concert. Yes, it involves many mundane details. Yes, my enthusiasm isn’t reflected by a crowed auditorium.

But when they hear the story of God’s love, eyes do fill with tears. When we open our mouths they hear angels sing. We experience miracles of the heart through praise and worship.

And I do understand the power of the performance in terms of miracle: Miracles of collaboration between musicians; miracles of collaboration with church members in vital support positions; miracles of hearts open to be moved my the moment – by the music – by the Spirit; miracles of remembrance.

May you too have joy and hope.

“I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope.” Psalm 16:8-9

Be at peace,
Pastor Steve