Dear Reader:

When I was little I was absolutely terrified of piano recitals. I think back then I would have sold my soul to the devil to escape that dreaded annual event of my childhood. I even prayed that I would get sick…but unfortunately, my stomach problems were simply a case of “butterflies”  (as mother would say) and I would be hauled off to endure another nightmare episode from childhood.

Perhaps if I had read the following story many years ago and thought that Jesus was playing with me, not only me, I would have felt more confident in completing the song without loss of memory. My greatest fear and humiliation. I hope you enjoy the story.

THE MASTER’S HAND

Wishing to encourage her young son’s progress on the piano, a mother took the small boy to a Paderewski concert. After they were seated, the mother spotted a friend in the audience and walked down the aisle to greet her. Seizing the opportunity to explore the wonders of the concert hall, the little boy rose and eventually explored his way through a door marked “NO ADMITTANCE.”

When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that her son was missing. Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage. In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.” At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy’s ear, “Don’t quit, keep playing.”

Then leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child and he added a running obligatio. Together, the old master and the young novice transformed a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience. The audience was mesmerized.

That’s the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy. We try our best, but the results aren’t exactly graceful flowing music. But with the hand of the Master, our life’s work truly can be beautiful. Next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You can hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, “Don’t quit, keep playing.” Feel His loving arms around you. Know that His strong hands are playing the concerto of your life. Remember, God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called.

– Author Unknown -…………………………………………

So until tomorrow…Let us continuously remind ourselves that we are not alone in our journey through this life.

“Today is my favorite day”  Winnie the Pooh