Youth Music

Ebenezer UMC here in town had a Youth Music night in conjunction with their 137th anniversary celebration. Our youth "orchestra" was invited to take part, so we took them over this evening.

All of the music was done by youth and children. Was it perfect? No. But it was perfectly real and inspiriting. Was it without mistakes? No. But it was full of beauty and grace. Was it professional? No. But it was inspired by the Holy Spirit and was inspiring to those who listened. Were the children and youth free from nerves. No. But they were brave and courageous.

I wonder if there is a lesson in that for all of us. God knows us well enough to not expect or demand perfection. Instead he brings us the inspiration to be courageous. All he asks is that we step out of the boat and take a chance. When we do, it brings the presence and awareness into the room around us.

We have gifts. They have been given to us by God to be used to accomplish his mission here on earth. Sometimes we hesitate to use our gifts, fearing that we won't be good enough or perfect.

The lesson tonight is that perfection is not the goal. Declaring the presence of God through our actions and words is the brass ring. Do that, and God will be with us. Do that, and everything will be changed.