Over the weekend, my husband and I had a date night at a candlelight concert (thanks mom + dad). I kept getting ads on IG for these concerts, so we decided to try it out for something new and were not disappointed! We chose the tribute to Hans Zimmer (my husband’s favorite) that featured a string quartet, cue the warm and fuzzy feeling! Being a violinist myself, I was thrilled to just listen to string music even if I didn’t know all of the songs. What I didn’t expect was to walk away with spiritual encouragement.
As I watched the violist lead the first few pieces, I was mesmerized. He silently led the quartet through seamless renditions of beautiful music. By making facial gestures and using body movements, he was able to make sure everyone was not just on the same page but that bowing was in sync, timing was precise, and presentation perfect. What hit me was that this violist was not the only one bringing these masterpieces to life. He was a necessary part of the music, but not the only part. Even with his level of skill and talent, the music would fall very flat if he were the only one playing. On the other hand, if he were not playing, the pieces would be seriously lacking. Isn’t that true of how we were created by the Lord?
As the four musicians continued to play amazing music, the Lord reminded me of how He uses each of us to bring His will to pass. He created us uniquely, just like each musician was interested and trained in a specific instrument. The Lord has also called us differently to expectations He has set for us individually. When we are in tune with the Holy Spirit, we know where and when the Lord calls us. He does not ask us to do every step of His divine plan today. He doesn’t ask us to do it alone. And He doesn’t ask us to do it without His guidance.
I often find myself overwhelmed at tasks set before me and I will humbly admit it’s because I try to do things on my own. Is it pride? Probably. I also think it’s a mindset that happens when I am just so used to something that I keep doing it. Take work for example - I’ve taught for 14+ years, so a lot of the strategies, jargon, interventions, and practices come naturally to me. The thing is, even though I was trained to do these things, there are times that God just wants me to set what I know aside and let Him lead. I’m picturing myself, a screechy violin, trying to play a part that the cello is actually supposed to play. And the Lord sitting there waiting for me to just let Him take the lead and create a beautiful symphony. It’s not easy to let go but sometimes it’s necessary. So, this week I hope to listen to the Holy Spirit before I solve problems, breathe before I discipline, and take a step back before I join in a conversation.
Lord, thank you for the person reading this. Thank you for speaking to me this weekend so beautifully through music. Father I pray that as we all go into a new week, that we would let you be our conductor and help us to remember that we are a part of the symphony you will create. We ask for your Holy Spirit to guide us and we give you the glory. In Jesus name, amen.
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