Melody creates soul of beautiful life

When I lived in Pennsylvania, my family and I would occasionally worship with a Mennonite Church. There were no musical instruments in their service; singing was done a cappella. The song leader would blow a note from a pitch pipe, and the sound of four-part harmony would fill the room, as each person sang their part. I would try to join in, but I could never find the notes, so I would sing the melody, leaving the more advanced efforts to the professionals.

Harmony is about position as much as it is music. To sing it, a person must be comfortable with a lesser role. The intention must be to enhance the melody, not to draw attention to one’s-self. It is a supportive action. Any attempt to sing harmony as the lead, defeats the effort, as harmony without melody lacks beauty.

The same is true with daily life. Many choose the lead role, desiring the experience of their individual ability. However, others embrace a more supportive position, supplying efforts and talents that enhance the life of those more individually inclined. In this they find fulfillment, even though their contributions may never be recognized.

I am impressed with the talent of those who sing harmony. But I admire more the humility of those who selflessly enhance the lives of others. They prove it is not the voice of the singer, but the soul that creates life’s beautiful song.

So, what part are you singing with your life?

Pastor Mark Holmes is an ordained minister in the Wesleyan Church and has served the Darrow Road Wesleyan Church since 1997.

Tags: community, church, family