Music...

From the time I was a small child, I have been drawn to music.  I sang, I plunked on the piano when my feet still dangled from the bench, I tapped on my toys, ran my finger around the edge of glassware, banged on pots and pans, and heard each sound with deep satisfaction.

My mother insisted that I have some training, so I took piano lessons from a very early age.  Funny how someone telling me to play is less inspiring than simply doing it!  Mom and I finally came to an agreement that she would do the dishes if I would practice during that time.  I hated dishes even more than practicing, so I played the piano while she did the dishes.  (Very, very slowly, now that I think about it!)

I am lucky she did, because in those practice sessions, music became my lifelong passion.  I cannot imagine my life without music.  Today, I play for fun, I play for comfort, I play for satisfaction.  When I am happy, and when I am sad, music provides an outlet for the emotions that overwhelm me.

Most importantly, music is an opportunity to share my faith.  By playing in church, by singing for people at weddings and funerals, by being part of a Christian band and performing, I am able to present my faith to people who otherwise may not be open and receptive to The Word.

I was created by a God who makes no mistakes, and when he gave me the gift of music, it was not just for me.  God knew that I could use that gift to share my faith and bring others his message of hope and mercy and, above all, grace.

Today I am grateful for music.