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12-06-2007, 04:44 PM
by Joan C. Webb
Playing My Part
1 Corinthians 12:4-7: "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit" (v.4).
Recently my husband and I enjoyed hearing the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. We listened to a piano concerto created long ago by Ludvig van Beethoven. The concert also included music written by Russian composer Alfred Schnittke. There was a striking contrast between the two compositions. Beethoven's concerto blended major and minor tones with magical balance. The Schnittke work introduced unfamiliar sounds and timing. Prior to the concert objects were placed on the piano strings to alter the sound. Although the violins echoed similar melodies, they were a fraction of a beat off in timing. The result was somewhat comical. In both compositions each instrument had its part to play. The flute did not imitate the sound of the bassoon. The cello did not mimic the detached notes of the harpsichord. Yet, the harmony captivated the audience. It worked -- brilliantly!
Each of us has God-given gifts, God-planned work to accomplish. We do not need to play exactly the same note in order to make lovely music together. We do not have to think, work or play the same for the sake of harmony. God is the master composer and conductor. He has a brilliant plan.
Lord, even when it sounds different from another's,
help me to play my part and exercise my gift.
Playing My Part
1 Corinthians 12:4-7: "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit" (v.4).
Recently my husband and I enjoyed hearing the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. We listened to a piano concerto created long ago by Ludvig van Beethoven. The concert also included music written by Russian composer Alfred Schnittke. There was a striking contrast between the two compositions. Beethoven's concerto blended major and minor tones with magical balance. The Schnittke work introduced unfamiliar sounds and timing. Prior to the concert objects were placed on the piano strings to alter the sound. Although the violins echoed similar melodies, they were a fraction of a beat off in timing. The result was somewhat comical. In both compositions each instrument had its part to play. The flute did not imitate the sound of the bassoon. The cello did not mimic the detached notes of the harpsichord. Yet, the harmony captivated the audience. It worked -- brilliantly!
Each of us has God-given gifts, God-planned work to accomplish. We do not need to play exactly the same note in order to make lovely music together. We do not have to think, work or play the same for the sake of harmony. God is the master composer and conductor. He has a brilliant plan.
Lord, even when it sounds different from another's,
help me to play my part and exercise my gift.