In Harmony

"So in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.  We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us."  -Romans 12:5-6

In today's Our Daily Bread David McCasland uses his granddaughter's school band concert to illustrate today's verse.  We recently attended a Sunday night concert in our local bandshell by a group called Abbey Road Live.  The entire concert was Beatles songs, expertly played by the group's members.  If you are a fan of the Beatle's music, you know how intricate their music was.  The tablature for each instrument was unique.  Together they created some beautiful, timeless melodies.  It was their music that motivated me to learn to play the guitar when I was 13.  Even though I could only strum (no fancy finger picking) twenty years later I used the guitar to accompany the trio I formed with two other women in my church to sing 3-part harmony praise songs during worship.

McCasland writes, "One definition of 'in concert' is 'agreement in design or plan combined action; harmony or accord'."  He continues, "The goal is cooperation, not competition."

When we start comparing our abilities with other's abilities it can lead to competition.  Instead we must let the Lord lead us where and how to best use the gifts He gives us.  We may not be as talented as others around us, but if we use what we have, God can find a place for us.

I'm grateful that God can use any effort I make for His Kingdom.