Sing
But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Psalm 5:11 (NIV)
Like Virginia Ruth (All God’s Creatures), once upon a time I would just start singing! Breaking into song brought me joy. Many of my made-up songs still linger in the back of my mind. I can still giggle when thinking about them. Today, I don’t sing much but I love to direct music, and it brings me equal joy. Please take a sacred pause as Virginia shares a great message about a little bird who happily sang.
*****
It was a blustery winter day, the kind we get toward the end of the season—sunny but not quite warm enough to feel like spring. As I passed through an industrial area, I noticed a small bird sitting in the middle of the concrete sidewalk, singing its heart out. I wondered why it was there, as there were no noticeable trees or shrubs nearby. Was it blown off the course of its migratory pattern? Was it trying to find its family? Or was the bird just singing because it felt like it? Regardless of the reason, the little bird was just singing.
Seeing and hearing this chipper bird made me think. Do I sing when I am afraid? Or heading in a wrong direction? Or when I feel lonely? Or just because?
I used to spontaneously sing a lot as a child, whether I was happy or upset, but in my adult years, I have forgotten. Sadly, singing is not my go-to expression anymore when things are difficult. My default seems to be more yelling than singing.
Though music can convey all human emotions, spontaneous singing most often flows from joy, and since joy is a gift from God, singing is also a gift from God—whether we realize it or not.
Seeing that little bird reminded me that I feel better when I sing. I have songs that will change my mood. When I feel a little blue, I listen to songs that inspire me, and before you know it, I’m singing along and my spirit’s lifted. Any chore becomes much easier if I sing while I do it.
I like to think that little bird was taking a rest before continuing its journey, and singing a little song was its way to find motivation to continue. And the next time I need a little oomph in my step, I will remember to sing like that little bird.
Loving Lord, thank You for music. Thank You for voices to sing and find joy. Help us to take a sacred pause, long enough to notice the songs of nature. AMEN.
Photo: Blackpoll warbler