August 6, 2004

Two events merged in my mind this week. I was able to enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane at a Peter, Paul and Mary concert on the North Shore.

During intermission, I began to reflect upon and make some connections with our recent General Assembly in Richmond, Virginia.

 

I am one of those types who like to participate. I easily get caught up in the clapping and sing-a-long of a concert. I remember once Paul Stookey reminding us that there would be a “little voice within saying ‘sing’.  Please don’t!” he requested.” Peter Yarrow is a master at drawing in the crowd. On this occasion, however, I found myself listening more to the trio, as well as the audience. I wanted to hear the sounds of the performers; I wanted to tune into the passion of the listeners. I was caught up in a euphoric moment of bliss.

 

It was o.k. to sing; they invited us to sing along. And yet, I knew that the words which came so easily to my mind, and the simple act of singing, might transfer all the focus upon me; put me at the center of the action.

 

I found myself in a similar situation as 8,000 hearty voices rang out during the processional hymn at opening worship at G.A. Once again, I found myself awed at the sound. I sang; I stopped; I listened. Over and over again, I was moved by the melodious sounds of so many different voices. There was a lot of movement, raised hands, and hand-waving as we shared an African praise song; yet, I found myself still and silent. This is not like me.

 

Sing, we must! Read along with the prayers; follow along in our Bible as the scripture is read. Yes! But at times, I find myself in awe and wonder when I stop and take a moment to just listen. I’ve had the privilege of leading a congregation in worship, and pausing to enjoy the heartfelt and joyous singing. It’s a real thrill; a sacrifice of praise pleasing to God.

 

You’ll hear a lot from me over the next few months. We’ll laugh, sing, work, and play together. But I also hope for lots of those serendipitous moments when I can just listen, and hear the multi-voiced sounds of God speaking through you. I consider such active listening God’s primary call to me right now. And next time, I want to connect this thought with the ways we listen for God’s voice through Scripture. Until then,
Keep the faith, . . . and let the faith keep you.

 

shalom