Learning the Songs

I thought you might like to see the much-bragged-about great grandson Joshua. (photo by his grandmother Sue) I'm still enjoying the memory of seeing and holding him last Saturday, and wishing it could be more often; also hoping to be able to watch him grow up!

Early this morning (we were both sleepless for awhile, and finally got up to talk) Chuck reminded me that it's been six months since the doctor announced cancer on December 7. We can't remember a more intense, bittersweet, God-blessed half year in our nearly 47 years of marriage.

A few days ago I read in Springs in the Desert the following: "Certain songs can only be learned in the valley. No music school can teach them, for no theory can cause them to be perfectly sung. Their music is found in the heart. They are songs remembered through personal experience, revealing their burdens through the shadows of the past, and soaring on the wings of yesterday.

"Therefore, dear soul, in this life you are receiving a music lesson from your Father. You are being trained to sing in a choir you cannot yet see, and there will be parts in the chorus that only you can sing. ... In the darkest night He is composing your song. In the valley He is tuning your voice. In the storm clouds He is deepening your range. In the rain showers He is sweetening your melody. In the cold He is giving your notes expression. And as you pass at times from hope to fear, He is perfecting the message of your lyrics. O dear soul, do not despise your school of sorrow. It is bestowing on you a unique part in the heavenly song." by George Matheson

All of us are in this "school," aren't we? Someday we'll make beautiful music together in heaven as we praise the Lord for His wonderful grace in our lives and for all His splendid qualities. Today is a tune-up. Hummmm.

Love,
Carol