The greatest story ever told! Every year I get to share it with hundreds of people in the most beautiful way imaginable! This year is no different. Tonight was our last regular rehearsal for Handel's Messiah. Next week we rehearse with the orchestra and then dress rehearsal and performances the following weekend. To me, the season starts when I start singing. Each year, the first rehearsal is like a reunion. People I see one time a year are like old friends. We share a love of God, music, and the experience of singing this Messiah. And, because of that, we know and understand each other.
A year ago, it was a bittersweet time. The beauty of the experience was clouded by the poor health of my uncle, who directs, and has directed for 48 years. It turned out that he was unable to direct and my brother- in- law directed. Although he did an amazing job, especially on short notice, we were all concerned with my uncles health issues.
Fast forward to now and it seems as though nothing was ever wrong! Each rehearsal is filled with the joy of the season, laughter, and beauty. The same stories and reminders about each piece of music are again repeated, bringing a knowing smile to each face. We know the words and how they should sound, we know the feeling each word should portray, and we know when he wants the words so quiet that half of us just mouth them or we'd be too loud. We know all of this because each year we hear my uncle's words reminding us.
Tonight, we sang the "Amen Chorus." Although it's just one word, I have to say it's one of the most beautiful and inspiring things I've ever heard. I feel blessed and overwhelmed by the time I get to the end of it and usually can hardly finish it, as determined as I am to not miss a moment of it.
So, where did I see God today? He was at rehearsal with us, listening to the story He created. And, He's been with my uncle and family this year as we clung to hope and faith to get through to now. I am grateful for His blessings of health for my uncle this year.
Matthew 6: 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Blessings,
Jennifer
A year ago, it was a bittersweet time. The beauty of the experience was clouded by the poor health of my uncle, who directs, and has directed for 48 years. It turned out that he was unable to direct and my brother- in- law directed. Although he did an amazing job, especially on short notice, we were all concerned with my uncles health issues.
Fast forward to now and it seems as though nothing was ever wrong! Each rehearsal is filled with the joy of the season, laughter, and beauty. The same stories and reminders about each piece of music are again repeated, bringing a knowing smile to each face. We know the words and how they should sound, we know the feeling each word should portray, and we know when he wants the words so quiet that half of us just mouth them or we'd be too loud. We know all of this because each year we hear my uncle's words reminding us.
Tonight, we sang the "Amen Chorus." Although it's just one word, I have to say it's one of the most beautiful and inspiring things I've ever heard. I feel blessed and overwhelmed by the time I get to the end of it and usually can hardly finish it, as determined as I am to not miss a moment of it.
So, where did I see God today? He was at rehearsal with us, listening to the story He created. And, He's been with my uncle and family this year as we clung to hope and faith to get through to now. I am grateful for His blessings of health for my uncle this year.
Matthew 6: 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Blessings,
Jennifer
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