Every so often, of the (typically) five songs that make up the weekly broadcast, there isn't even one that really moves me. Such was the case this week. That's not to say I didn't appreciate them, or acknowledge the truths they contained, or recognize they were prayerfully selected for many around the world who would tune in and feel inspired. Because I did. But personally, I was struggling a bit and realized I needed to say a prayer to get fully on board and truly fulfill my calling. So as I reviewed the music this morning during rehearsal, I tried to lock in on the lyrics and get excited to sing the truths they contain. I also leaned back and asked a friend of mine what song was his favorite for today, hoping for some additional inspiration and insights. Without much hesitation, he answered "Finlandia/On Great Lone Hills". I had to smile because that was my least favorite of the five. I mean, I love the orchestral beginning. It's majestic, it's bold, and it's triumphant, with strings and horns and drums and brass all combining forces to capture our attention and draw us in. But then the choir comes in and it's like it suddenly changes to a very slow and somber piece--plodding along for several pages to a (in my opinion) plain melody. Such plodding finally comes to an end though, as the grand finale kicks in and the orchestra and choir unite to bring things to a glorious conclusion.
As I drove home after choir, I thought more about Finlandia and realized that it's a lot like life, actually. We have moments or experiences that are grand and majestic--ones that are exciting and captivating. But a lot of life is just plodding along, steadily trying to do our best, and getting through the various hardships that come along. I suppose, too, that even along side the daily plodding, there are small moments of grandeur. Moments that may not fit into the underlying narrative, but that appear on our personal sidelines and then take center stage just long enough for us to transform our plodding into a steady, confident walk with a smile on our face and a brighter hope in our hearts.
All of that said, I guess I owe an apology to Finlandia. Thanks to that song, I was reminded of some important truths today. :)
Before concluding today's post, there are some lyrics from another piece of music I wanted to highlight, mainly for some friends--several of whom are in the choir-- who need to be recognized today for their strength and valiant determination. Their particular struggles are uniquely challenging, but they fight the good fight each day and use their talents and strengths to bless all around them.
Let every instrument be tuned for praise;
Let all rejoice who have a voice to raise,
And may God give us faith to sing always.
These three lyric sentences from "When In Our Music God is Glorified" speak about all of God's children: each is an instrument that receives personal, divine tuning to contribute to those around them; each is a voice that is worthy of being heard; and each is an individual who goes forward in faith, singing their own unique song of love and hope.
Let us all keep singing, always.
Until next time, God be with you.
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