In between the notes


Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness. –Maya Angelou


I really enjoy music. I play no instrument except a choral voice (no solos, thanks), but I have come to deeply appreciate many different styles of music. Most of the time, it’s the music, not the lyrics, that draws me in. The gift of tying notes together to produce such wonderful rhythms and harmonies is one I do not possess.

To paraphrase Will Rogers: We can’t all be musicians, for somebody needs to be in the audience to applaud and cheer them on.

We marvel at the flying fingers of a jazz pianist; we clap as the trumpeter hits impossibly high notes. But what we don’t often pause to appreciate, in music or in life, is the silence. The resting points between the notes.

Sometimes the rest might be only a quick gasp for air; other times, the instrumentalist might actually have several whole measures to breathe and prepare for the next entrance.

As usual, art—music—imitates Life. We get so focused on the action, the things we do every day that we forget to un-busy ourselves, even for a moment. As Christmas draws ever closer, rewrite your theme song. Give yourself a rest—and take it.


Monday What music brings joy to your heart? Find something that brings you joy and listen closely. Breathe. Isaiah 11:1-10

Tuesday Stop and consider someone to whom you are a light that shines. Today is a good day for a random act of kindness. Romans 15:4-7

 Wednesday Give thanks for those who provide leadership to your congregation, particularly those who teach classes. Send a note or email of thanksgiving. Romans 15:8-13

Thursday Your Music & Arts team works hard preparing for worship. Thank God today for their talents and willingness to share, not for their own glory, but to the glory of God. Psalm 72:1-7

Friday As we draw closer to Christmas, life can become even more hectic. Pause (again). Do nothing. Rest until the joy returns to your spirit. Matthew 3:1-6

Saturday Imagine the joy on a poor child’s face upon receiving an unexpected gift. Consider making a donation to a child-centered organization in honor of a child (of any age) whom you love. 
Matthew 3:7-12

Sunday Listen to the music all around you today, beyond the walls of the sanctuary. Praise God Sing in the car on your drive home. Psalm 72:18-19

Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us. --Martin Luther

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