On Wings Of Eagles

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Friday, October 4, 2013

Showing the Joy of the Lord

Ephesians 5:19-20 (NIV)
19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Music can be so invigorating and uplifting, especially if it is directed towards praising God! Realizing this, Mr. Bowen volunteered to join Bishop Bompas in the Yukon. Little was known of the territory at that time, but Mr. Bowen became convicted that a musical instrument would be of help.

It was difficult to choose which instrument would be the best, however, as it had to be one that was hardy, yet small enough and light enough for easy transportation. Unfortunately, this ruled out both the piano and the guitar! Mr. Bowen decided on the concertina, a small music instrument of the free-reed family, much like a miniature accordion. The only problem was that he had no idea how to play it! This didn't deter him however, and during his voyage north he ardently practiced this unusual instrument.

Mr. Bowen's fellow passengers weren't overly happy with the would-be musician. Though he sought to produce heavenly music, the sounds that emanated from his cabin were far more like teeth extractions being performed by ill-tempered dentists! He was threatened with dire consequences if he continued to play; nevertheless, he persevered. I don't know about you, but I don't think I would have liked to be on that ship very much!

His zealous, adamant practice paid off, however. Once in the Yukon, Mr. Bowen's little instrument brought endless comfort and pleasure to the many lonely, isolated people of the north territory. In fact, the mere sight of the concertina halted many an argument and fight, changing rude shouts to joyful singing. The concertina and its illustrious player also opened up many doors for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ!

A stranger visited a church service one time, and when he heard the music, he stopped in his tracks, looked around bewildered and yelled "Where in so and so is the music coming from?" People never seemed to stop being amazed at the lovely sounds that emanated from that tiny instrument. It was like sound leading to heaven!

Music is powerful. No wonder the apostle Paul urged us to "Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Eph 5:19-20 NIV)

Let's face it! How can you look like a dried-up prune when singing to the glory of God? How can you continue to feel forlorn and depressed when there are sounds of praise resonating from you own throat? How can you continue to grumble and criticize others when music overtakes your heart?

Impossible!

Is it possible that we focus too much on our sour circumstances instead of focusing on the joy of knowing Christ?

Is it possible that we concentrate too often on what others are doing instead of concentrating on what God is doing?

Let's sing continually to the glory of God. Let Him continually fill our heart with joy. Let us make music in our hearts and listen for God's response.


Dear Lord, helps us to sing praises to You with our words, our hearts and our joy.  Help us be joyful so the world can see Your love through us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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