Cackling Geese
Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. 1 John 4:11-12
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:14-16
Insight
Hitting puberty in the middle of chorus class is not ideal. I sounded like a wounded duck when we belted out Wind Beneath My Wings (ironic...I know). I tried to clear my throat, but it continued to crackle and break. My changing voice prevented the group from hitting the right notes on that day. Rather than music to people's ears, the sound coming from the room was a vocal disaster.
We plug our ears when someone is offkey or when individuals try to sing over each other. But, during those moments when a group of voices comes together to make a pleasing tune, we're moved. Hearing a beautiful harmony stirs emotions within us. The same principle holds for the Church and us becoming a unified voice.
In the Apostle Paul's letter to the believers in Rome, he urges them to live in harmony together. By being united and for each other, they would produce a song that made its way throughout the surrounding areas. The tune would get stuck in people's heads, and others would join in by singing along.
So, what can make us out of tune with those around us?
Selfishness. Pride. Arrogance. Letting convenience and comfort win. If everyone is fighting for the center stage and the opportunity to sing the solo, the show can't go on. At best, it's a complete train wreck. We come across to the outside world as a bunch of cackling geese who are solely focused on tooting our own horn.
We love because He first loved us; it is this love we want to belt out for all those listening ears to hear. The only way we as a church can be pitch-perfect is through practicing the art of humility, love, and sacrifice. Throughout history, a body of people reflecting the image of Christ is what has glorified God. We come together to support and encourage one another as we seek to honor God through how we live and interact with one another. People will see God's love through our love for each other.
Reflection
In what relationships do you find yourself out of tune with the other person?
How can you pursue harmony with them?
Prayer
God, may I join my voice with the chorus of others proclaiming Your great love. Let this tune be a joyous noise to all who hear it. Let it move them to consider what is worthy of their heart's affection and attention. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.