Last Friday night I had the opportunity to participate in a church community live nativity performance. I sang in the choir along with 30 other people to a community of Christians who walked around our church admiring over 120 nativity scenes including a live one outside. There were several choirs to sing beautiful Christmas hymns and we all felt peacefulness and uplifted even though the rest of the world seems to be all in commotion.
Thoughts on Service
A few months ago our youth group of 100 took the challenge of a “Service with a Smile” treasure hunt and rode around in groups of six trying to find ways to help others for two hours. They went to grocery stores, gas stations and parks. They helped people with groceries, fill gas tanks, pick up trash and cheer on teams at the park. One group even helped change a stranded driver’s tire. But what stuck out in the minds of one group (mine) was their stop at a local retirement home. There were some residents watching TV in the lobby and we wanted to sing to them as our service. We sang two songs and they loved it. Singing those songs lifted the spirits of those living there. The residents listening didn’t want them to stop singing and the youth singing didn’t want to leave.
Thoughts on Music
Last year a family in our church asked a bunch of us to go Christmas caroling in their neighborhood. It was really fun and a lot of the neighbors really enjoyed their own private concert at their front door even if it was only 2 or 3 songs.
A few years ago a friend of a friend organized a Handel’s Halleluiah Chorus flash mob sing-a-long at our local Wal-mart. I had never been a part of a flash mob but it was really fun. Everyone in the store gathered around after hearing people start to sing and it was fantastic. Everyone was so excited after we were finished. It was really wonderful.
About twelve years ago my husband and I invited another couple who sang in our church choir to sing as we walked through a mall at Christmas time. It was a little scary because it was only the four of us but as we walked through the mall others listened and liked what they heard. It was a great emotional high and we were all uplifted because of it.
What do all of these experiences have in common? We can share our singing talents with others and they will be blessed. Music has such a powerful affect on the soul. In listening to uplifting music others can feel more at peace. All those who heard the singing could feel it too while they listened. Music makes a big difference.
Thoughts on Christ
In such trying times, music is not the only venue which lifts our spirits. Reading scripture verses each night as a family really helps.
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ” from Romans 1:16 has a powerful message. As Christians we are to proclaim the gospel to those unbelievers in a meek and pleasing way. We shouldn’t annoy others if they do not listen but with gentleness, kindness and by good example, we should treat others as they would like to be treated.
After all, Jesus Christ set us the best example in turning the other cheek when an enemy strikes or returning a quiet answer when angry words are spoken. These are difficult tasks sometimes; especially if we are overly tired, already angry or annoyed by another person. Those who are believers can set a good example.
To read more of Valerie’s articles, click here.
Speaking of a good example, I read a quote the other day that said we should leave the earth a better place than how we found it. If only everyone felt this way in living your life so that when you get up in the morning “The Adversary” will think: oh no, she’s awake.
Just a few thoughts rolling around in my head on a rainy, Friday night to inspire others to live life better, help others and be happy.
Valerie Steimle has been writing as a family advocate for over 25 years. As a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she promotes Christian living in her writings and is the mother of nine children and grandmother to twelve. Mrs. Steimle authored six books and is a contributing writer to several online websites. To her, time is the most precious commodity we have and knows we should spend it wisely.
To read more of Valerie's work, visit her at her website, The Blessings of Family Life.
