Stupendous

Mary’s Monday Musings to Quilt Encouragement

 

Stupendous

 

Along with the rows of people sitting in front of me at a symphony concert, I shook my head in wonder at the accomplishments of the featured violinist. Her instrument filled the concert hall with resounding tones, pumping our emotions as her bow stroked her violin. Vibrant trills rang through the air. How extraordinary that she could reach such extremely high notes for exceptionally long passages with nary a squeak. The audience sat in rapt attention at her talent, energy, and skill. We stood in thunderous applause when she stopped. At the intermission, people all around us exclaimed at the thrill of listening and witnessing the remarkable performance. Awed is probably the best word for our reaction.

 

I wonder how many hours upon hours went into the self-discipline and practice behind that feat. What skill in my life would prosper from a more dedicated approach to mastering an accomplishment? What level of mercy or attitude of grace could I attain if I practiced discipline over my thoughts? I don’t have to attend a concert to see awe inspiring examples of creativity. Our God can make our spirits thrill, our hearts sing, and our minds soar when we note the concrete evidence of His involvement in our lives. All we have to do is recognize His hand in the natural wonders around us. We witness His creativity each year as He orchestrates the seasons. We see His answers to our prayers and our awareness of God’s love uplifts us and raises our level of joyful living. When we seek Him, He is right there to help our self-discipline, to enable us to practice following His guidance and leading. He breathes on us, and we experience the awe of worshipping our astonishing God.